Hisdesat gives the go-ahead to the launch of the SpainSat NG III satellite
The operator and owner of the communications and Earth observation radar satellites of the Ministry of Defence and other allied and friendly countries has begun the request for quote process to replace SpainSat NG II
Hisdesat, together with the Ministry of Defence, has initiated the RFQ process for the SpainSat NG III satellite, which is set to replace SpainSat NG II, after verifying that the damage suffered by the latter due to the impact of a space particle will prevent it from completing the planned mission.
Hisdesat has implemented this measure after analyzing the latest reports by the main contractor of the SpainSat NG II satellite. Although the space particle that collided with the satellite was estimated to be millimetric in size and weigh only a few grams, the high speed of the impact on a vital area of the satellite caused non-recoverable damage.
The satellite is stable, complete and in a highly eccentric orbit, in such a way that it won’t interfere with any present or future space operations, and its loss won’t cause any economic harm, as it’s insured against this kind of damage.
Until SpainSat NG III enters into operation, the services will be guaranteed through SpainSat NG I (from 29ºE) and SpainSat (from 30ºW).
Hisdesat remains committed to the strategic goals of the SpainSat NG program and the provision of the planned services.