Kongsberg NanoAvionics Wins Contract To Build 280-Satellite Constellation

The first entry in the Meridian Space communication constellation will be developed by Kongsberg NanoAvionics. This is possible after the small satellite manufacturer won a €122.5 million contract to build over 282 satellites.

Meridian Space Constellation To Use Kongsberg NanoAvionics Satellites

The Meridian Space constellation is a low Earth orbit (LEO) communication constellation that US space firm SpinLaunch is developing. For this development, the US-based space firm is turning to Kongsberg NanoAvionics for its technological know-how in developing small communication satellites.

This partnership will see the development of 282 low-Earth-orbit satellites, 280 of which will make it to the Meridian Space constellation. The other two satellites will be in-orbit demonstrators to show how the constellation will operate, paving the way for the other satellites.

SpinLaunch says that these satellites will feature a compact flat-pack design that will enable more satellites to launch into space together on one space vehicle. According to official reports, over 250 satellites in this constellation might make their way to space in one launch.

The 280 satellites to make it to low Earth orbit (LEO) will only be the first batch of satellites in this constellation. There are plans that the constellation will grow into a 1,190-satellite-strong constellation providing communication to users on Earth.

SpinLaunch’s decision to award Kongsberg NanoAvionics the contract is because of the latter’s satellite design. David Wrenn SpinLaunch CEO says “NanoAvionics’ modular smallsat systems give us a reliable foundation to scale our constellation quickly and confidently.”

When Will The Meridian Space Communication Constellation Launch?

This partnership between SpinLaunch and Kongsberg NanoAvionics for developing the Meridian Space communication constellation aims to bear fruit soon. By 2026 both firms hope to send the first batch of the satellite constellation into low Earth orbit (LEO).

In consideration of the timeframe, there are plans to ramp up production in order to meet the schedule. Regarding this Kongsberg NanoAvionics is looking to expand its assembly plant in Lithuania.

This will require some investment on the part of the satellite manufacturer and its parent company is making some moves. Kongsberg NanoAvionics’ parent company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace will invest $12 million into the firm’s LEO communications initiative.

Speaking of the investment, Erik Lie President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace says that its product “will offer significantly higher broadband capacity in a satellite constellation compared with what is available on the market today.” He adds that “Kongsberg’s decision to partner with SpinLaunch reflects our belief in their innovative approach to satellite communications.”