SpinLaunch Selects Kongsberg NanoAvionics for 280-Satellite LEO Communications Network

Kongsberg NanoAvionics, part of the Norwegian technology group Kongsberg, has secured a significant contract with SpinLaunch to exclusively manufacture and supply microsatellites for a new low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications constellation known as Meridian Space.

Deal Details

This €122.5m agreement is one of Nanoavionics‘s most significant satellite manufacturing orders. The company, headquartered in Vilnius, Lithuania, is known for its modular small satellite platforms. The contract is for manufacturing and delivering 282 microsatellites for SpinLaunch, a US-based space technology company known for its kinetic launch technology.

This contract includes two In-Orbit Demonstrator (IOD) prototypes and the production of 280 satellites based on NanoAvionics’ MP42 microsatellite bus. The MP42 platform is known for its reliability and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for large-scale constellations.

‘The value and scale of the contract is a fantastic demonstration of our ability to build satellite constellations and get them into orbit quickly, enabling customers to realise quick value,’ said Atle Wøllo, CEO of Kongsberg NanoAvionics.

SpinLaunch: Ambitious Debut in the SatCom Market

SpinLaunch will use these satellites to support its new Meridian Space LEO broadband communications network, which will be deployed between 2026 and 2027.

SpinLaunch has been developing its broadband constellation and antenna technology since 2020 and a low-cost, high-frequency kinetic launch system.

The Meridian Space constellation represents SpinLaunch’s entry into the satellite broadband market, targeting enterprise customers worldwide.  

The next-generation satellite communications network is expected to deliver a global bandwidth of Tbps and consist of compact microsatellites weighing around 7 kg. These satellites will have enhanced communications capabilities over their existing counterparts.

Each satellite’s flat design allows up to 250 vehicles to be deployed in a single rocket launch, significantly reducing costs and simplifying deployment. SpinLaunch plans to launch its first demonstration satellite into orbit in 2026.

This demonstrator will be the first step towards building a constellation expected to grow to at least 1,190 satellites, as outlined in the company’s spectrum application in 2021. Central to this initiative is a partnership with Lithuanian satellite manufacturer NanoAvionics.

NanoAvionics: Lithuanian Space Industry Leader

NanoAvionics was founded in 2014 based on Vilnius University. It is now one of the world’s leading satellite manufacturers. The company specialises in modular satellite buses and mission integration services. Its headquarters in Vilnius serves as a research, development and manufacturing centre for nanosatellites and microsatellites.

To meet the growing demand for satellite constellations, including for the latest contract, NanoAvionics has had to expand its manufacturing capabilities. The company recently doubled its production capacity by opening a new facility near its headquarters in Vilnius. This facility includes advanced test chambers and laboratories, enabling the production of a larger satellite bus.

Strategic Investments to Enhance Partnership

As part of the deal, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA), a global leader in the defence and aerospace sectors, has invested an additional $12 million to support the constellation’s development and commercialisation. KDA owns 77 per cent of NanoAvionics and has now acquired a minority stake in SpinLaunch.

Conclusion

SpinLaunch’s move to satellite communications via its Meridian Space constellation marks a transformational step for the company. To compete with existing market players, SpinLaunch plans to utilise proprietary technologies such as ultra-efficient reflective array antennas, a one-of-a-kind orbital architecture, and simplified user terminals and gateways.