Agreement will help foster technological leadership in Earth observation for Spain

Airbus and SATLANTIS, a leading Spanish space company specialising in optical instruments, have signed a Memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop infrared capability for the Spanish MoD. This collaboration will be the first step towards a future Spanish infrared Earth observation system for governmental purposes and dual use.

The collaboration between the two companies will see the integration of optical and thermal cameras developed by the SATLANTIS group on satellites designed and integrated by Airbus in Spain. This synergy represents an ideal combination of national resources, taking advantage of SATLANTIS’ experience and agility in the development of cameras for the acquisition of optical and thermal Earth observation data, and Airbus in Spain’s extensive experience as a large space systems integrator.

A key element of this infrared capability will be the development of innovative satellite solutions incorporating high-resolution capability in the MWIR (Mid-Wave Infrared) and LWIR (Long-Wave Infrared) thermal bands. This joint project aims to provide governments with an unprecedented capability at an affordable price for high-resolution thermal observation and data collection, which will be fundamental in addressing critical challenges in areas such as national security, natural disaster management and environmental monitoring.

Luis Guerra Peña, Head of Airbus Space Systems in Spain, said: “This agreement is an important step towards strengthening the space industry in Spain. The combination of Airbus’ expertise in space systems and SATLANTIS’ experience in advanced optical instruments will allow us to offer infrared measurement solutions for both civil and defence applications. We are convinced of the potential of this project and its contribution to foster Spain’s technological leadership in space.”

Juan Tomás Hernani, CEO of SATLANTIS, added: “This agreement reflects SATLANTIS’ commitment to developing innovative technologies for Earth observation. Working with Airbus in Spain allows us to advance the development of next-generation optical satellites, which are essential to address global challenges such as climate change, natural resource management and national security. We are delighted to join forces with Airbus on this exciting journey.”

Airbus release