New generation Spanish communications satellite launches into orbit

The satellite SpainSat Next Generation I (SpainSat NG-I) is now operational after successfully launching overnight from Florida.

The launch took place at 8:34 pm EST (2:34 am CET), marking a historic milestone for the Spanish space sector.

The advanced secure communications satellite, which is 6.7 metres high and 2.7 metres wide and weighs 6.1 tonnes, reached its correct orbital trajectory just nine minutes after liftoff.

Its final destination will be some 36,000 kilometres above Earth.

SpainSat NG-I, together with its twin NG-II which is set to be launched in October, will cover an extensive global area from the United States and South America to Singapore, including Africa, Europe and the Middle East.

This wide coverage will help to ensure effective command and control of the Armed Forces over two-thirds of the Earth's surface.

According to Diana Morant, Spain's minister of science, innovation, and universities, 45 per cent of the parts used in this satellite were manufactured in Spain.

Europe's most advanced secure communications satellite

The satellite incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, including advanced anti-jamming and anti-spoofing systems, as well as reinforcement against nuclear phenomena at a high altitude, according to the satellite's operator Hisdesat.

The project, more than 40 per cent of which is being developed by Spanish industry, is led by a consortium including Airbus D&S and Thales Alenia Space.

The programme is set to create more than 500 skilled jobs during its development phase and will maintain more than 100 engineers per year during its 15-year operational life.

The satellite system will remain in service until 2037 and meets NATO's requirements for alliance communications in its missions and deployments.

It is also part of the EU's GOVSATCOM programme, offering communication to Spanish government entities as well as allies and friendly countries with bilateral agreements.