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Airbus carried out the successful launch of the first of two new SpainSat NG satellites, SpainSat NG-I, using a Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral. The satellite, commissioned by Hisdesat for the Spanish Armed Forces, offers secure communications technology and is scheduled to go into operation from the second half of 2025.
Significance of satellite launch
The launch of SpainSat NG-I marks a significant advance in European satellite communications technology. Airbus emphasized that the project includes Europe’s most advanced communications satellite in UHF, Ka and X-band. This significantly strengthens the sovereignty of Spain and Europe in security-related areas.
Technical innovations and developments
The satellite features an innovative payload that accounts for more than 45% of the total satellite. These developments were implemented thanks to a collaborative approach from the Spanish space industry, led by Airbus. Particular attention is paid to the active X-band transmitting and receiving antenna systems, which offer flexibility and resilience and can be reconfigured up to 1,000 times per second. In addition, the satellite is radiation-resistant and can therefore withstand extreme conditions.
Capacity expansion and reach
The new range of SpainSat NG satellites represents a tenfold increase in communications capacity compared to the previous generation. This enables faster data transmission with coverage of two-thirds of the Earth‘s surface. Designed to address the growing demands for global communications, the satellite will help strengthen strategically important connections worldwide.
Progress and future prospects
The twin satellite SpainSat NG-II is currently in the construction and testing phase at the Airbus Defense and Space facilities and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. These developments underscore Airbus’ strategy to lead the communications world through state-of-the-art satellite infrastructure while addressing the needs of the security and defense industry.
Airbus Defense and Space
Airbus Defense and Space has established itself as a leader in space technology, developing innovative solutions to complex modern communications challenges. With headquarters in Toulouse and numerous international locations, Airbus consistently focuses on research and development to strengthen European space capabilities.
