Tiny Satellites, Big Ambitions: Alba Orbital Expands PocketQube Fleet with Latest SpaceX Launch

Alba Orbital has successfully launched five PocketQube satellites from three different countries aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-13 Rideshare mission. With this latest deployment, the Glasgow-based company has now put 53 satellites into orbit.

The satellites were integrated into AlbaPod, the company’s proprietary PocketQube Deployer, at Alba Orbital’s new factory in Hillington Industrial Estate, Glasgow — the world’s first dedicated PocketQube production facility. Once integrated, the miniature satellites were shipped to SpaceX before being launched into low Earth orbit (LEO).

“PocketQube technology represents a major breakthrough in making space more accessible and versatile,” said Harri Laitinen, Lifeguard at icMercury. “These ultra-compact satellites prove that innovation is not about size but about efficiency and capability.”

What Is A PocketQube?

PocketQubes are ultra-miniaturized satellites. Each measures 5 cm cubed per unit (‘P’), making them a cost-effective and accessible alternative for space missions. With launch costs as low as €25,000 through Alba Orbital’s rideshare services, they provide an affordable gateway into space for universities, research institutions, and startups.

These small but powerful satellites serve a variety of purposes; such as educational projects, Earth observation, communication networks, and advanced technology testing. By enabling faster and more cost-effective access to space, PocketQubes are helping democratise space exploration like never before.

“The personal PocketQube concept of icMercury is a great example of how the New Space era is enabling affordable, beneficial, and even entertaining approaches to space exploration,” said Seda Hewitt, Space Ambassador of icMercury.

Mission Highlights – The PocketQubes on Board

HADES-ICM – HYDRA SPACE / IC MERCURY / SMART IR

The 1.5P HADES-ICM PocketQube carries an open voice transponder for the radio amateur community, operated by AMSAT-EA. It also includes Smart IR’s graphene-based experiment, designed to test space sustainability technologies. Additionally, icMercury will broadcast space sustainability messages, inspiring future generations with text messages from orbit.

HYDRA-W – HYDRA SPACE

This 1.5P PocketQube expands Hydra Space’s growing IoT satellite network, contributing to a connected infrastructure for smart devices. On board is an on-orbit Terahertz Research experiment from Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) and an IoT connectivity experiment led by Hydra Space.

UNICORN-2O, 2P & 2Q – ALBA ORBITAL

These three 3P PocketQubes are the latest additions to Alba Orbital’s Earth observation constellation, designed to capture images of Earth in both daytime and nighttime conditions. This launch brings the total number of Unicorn-2 satellites to 17, further enhancing Alba’s capabilities in remote sensing and imaging.

Interstellar Communication’s First PocketQube, HADES-ICM, Takes Flight

Among the newly launched satellites, HADES-ICM stands out as the first PocketQube deployed by Interstellar Communication Holdings Inc.. The satellite lifted off on 15 March 2025 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.

This 1.5P PocketQube, measuring 5 cm × 5 cm × 8 cm and weighing 400 g, carries a graphene radiator experiment developed by SmartIR, a spin-out from the University of Manchester. The mission will test the feasibility of low-power active graphene radiators in space, paving the way for future advancements in satellite cooling technology.

Additionally, HADES-ICM features a software-defined radio (SDR)-based repeater, allowing for amateur radio communications. It operates with a UHF downlink and VHF uplink, enabling AX.25/APRS transmissions at 300/1200 bps.

“With icMercury, we aim to provide the tools and experiences for people to explore, understand, and make creative use of space technology,” said Lijie Zhu, Captain of icMercury. “This journey reminds us that in the vast universe, we are not alone.”

The Future Of Space Innovation

With the growing demand for cost-effective and flexible space missions, PocketQubes are redefining space accessibility. Their low cost and rapid deployment allow individuals, universities, and businesses to participate in cutting-edge research, communication advancements, and Earth observation projects.

Seda Hewitt highlighted the significance of this shift: “This is just the beginning. We’re excited to share this journey and see how PocketQube technology can empower individuals and organizations worldwide.”