Spanish skies have recently seen new additions that promise to mark a turning point in the digitalization and management of maritime and air communications. The successful launch of the SATMAR nanosatellite, along with Startical's second IOD-2 demonstrator satellite, strengthens the strength of the national space sector and places Spain at the forefront of European technology.
Both the maritime and aeronautical industries are undergoing a profound transformation. Thanks to these developments, which pave the way for connectivity solutions in the most remote and challenging areas of the planet. The joint work of companies and public institutions translates into safer, more efficient, and sustainable systems for all operators involved.
SATMAR, the Galician revolution in maritime communications
Last Monday, from the Vandenberg base in California, SpaceX launched SATMAR, a nanosatellite designed and built in Galicia by Alén Space. This key element for the digital future of the Spanish maritime sector aims to demonstrate under real-world conditions the viability of the new international standard VDES (VHF Data Exchange System), intended to replace the veteran AIS in traffic management and communications on the high seas.
The SATMAR, type 6U, stands out for its two-way satellite transmission capability in the VHF band, which will make it easier for ships to maintain continuous communication with land and each other, even at great distances from the coast. Among its most notable advantages are the ability to receive real-time emergency alerts, optimize maritime routes for lower fuel consumption, and reduce both costs and polluting emissions.
In addition to the main objective, the satellite integrates a secondary payload that turns SATMAR into a orbiting test laboratory, specifically focused on software-defined radio (SDR). This will allow for testing emerging high-speed communications technologies and monitoring the radio spectrum in different bands, strengthening cybersecurity and the stability of maritime networks.
The launch of SATMAR into orbit marks a milestone for the Galician and Spanish industry, The event was followed with excitement by the company's team from its facilities in Nigrán. According to Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space, "the technology we have just sent into space will have a significant impact on maritime traffic and will offer new development and business opportunities for the sector."
IOD-2: Connecting the Sky for International Aviation
The IOD-2 satellite, the second in the Startical experimental constellation, shared the spotlight at the same launch. A company owned by Enaire and Indra. The IOD-2 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the IOD-1, a pioneer in enabling the first VHF voice communications between pilots and air traffic controllers via satellite, an advance that has already begun to change the future of global air traffic.
Indra was responsible for engineering this satellite's critical systems and payload, integrating a powerful VHF amplifier and the largest antenna of its kind ever launched into space by a Spanish company. These innovations allow for advanced testing under real-world operating conditions over areas such as the South Atlantic, covering routes of particular interest to international air traffic.
Innovation and the future of Spanish space
The coincidence of the launching of these two satellites demonstrates the drive of the Spanish aerospace industry., capable of leading highly technologically complex projects in collaboration with national and European companies, research centers, and public bodies.
On one hand, SATMAR will serve as a test bed and spearhead for digitalization in port and maritime management.On the other hand, IOD-2 and the future Startical constellation will pave the way for real-time monitoring and communication between pilots and controllers anywhere on the planet, improving the safety and efficiency of global aviation.
The development of these satellites not only positions Spain as a leader in the new space economy, but offers opportunities for economic development, the creation of skilled employment and the export of cutting-edge technologyThe synergy between public and private actors ensures that future generations of satellites will continue to consolidate this leadership in the coming years.
