Spain to Lead Earth Observation Revolution with Atlantic Constellation – Powered by Open Cosmos
Spain is poised to become a central player in the future of Earth observation with its leadership role in the Atlantic Constellation, the largest Earth observation constellation ever contracted in the country. Spearheaded by European space infrastructure leader Open Cosmos, and in collaboration with the Spanish Space Agency and the European Space Agency (ESA), this aspiring project promises to deliver critical data for climate resilience, environmental management, and maritime safety. The proclamation, made during ESA’s 50th-anniversary celebrations at its Madrid facilities, marks a critically important step towards bolstering Europe’s sovereign capabilities in space-based Earth observation.
Addressing Urgent Global Challenges
The Atlantic Constellation isn’t simply about technological advancement; it’s a direct response to the escalating challenges posed by climate change and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. from devastating wildfires to prolonged droughts and catastrophic floods,the need for timely,accurate,and actionable Earth observation data has never been greater. This constellation is designed to provide precisely that – empowering governments, industries, and researchers to make informed decisions and build a more enduring future.
A Collaborative, “System of Systems” Approach
What sets the Atlantic Constellation apart is its commitment to interoperability. The project is conceived as a ”system of systems,” designed for seamless integration with other existing and future satellite configurations. This collaborative approach has already garnered support from nations including the UK,Greece,and Portugal,as well as key regions within Spain – Catalonia,the Balearic Islands,Andalusia,and the Canary Islands – each contributing to a growing network of shared resources.
The Technology Behind the Vision: Eight Advanced Microsatellites
Open Cosmos will be responsible for the design and construction of eight advanced microsatellites, each packed with cutting-edge technology. These satellites will deliver a comprehensive suite of Earth observation capabilities, including:
* High-Resolution Multispectral Optical Cameras: Providing detailed visual data for monitoring land use, vegetation health, and environmental changes.
* Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Reflectometry Sensors: A novel technology that leverages reflected navigation signals to measure ground conditions, offering insights into soil moisture, vegetation biomass, and even sea ice thickness.
* Internet of things (IoT) Connectivity: Enabling the collection of in-situ data from remote locations, monitoring terrestrial conditions, and transmitting facts cost-effectively. This expands the constellation’s reach beyond traditional satellite imagery.
* Automatic Vessel Identification System (AIS): Enhancing maritime domain awareness by tracking vessel locations and monitoring maritime activity, even beyond line-of-sight.
real-World Applications: From Disaster Response to Smart Cities
The data generated by the Atlantic Constellation will have far-reaching implications across a multitude of sectors:
* Environmental & Climate Management: Continuous monitoring of forests,crops,and water resources will provide early warnings of deforestation,droughts,and other ecological shifts,enabling proactive conservation efforts.
* Coastal & Maritime Surveillance: Enhanced pollution tracking, vessel monitoring, and maritime safety features will contribute to cleaner oceans and more efficient navigation.
* Disaster Response: near-real-time data delivery during emergencies like wildfires and floods will provide critical situational awareness to first responders, optimizing rescue efforts and minimizing damage.
* Urban Planning & Smart Cities: Insights into land management, urban progress, and resource utilization will support the creation of more sustainable and resilient urban environments.
Open Cosmos: A European Leader in Space Innovation
This contract reinforces Open Cosmos’s position as a leading force in the European space industry. Based in Barcelona, the company is dedicated to democratizing access to space technology and delivering impactful solutions for a rapidly changing world. Open Cosmos’s commitment to innovation was further demonstrated in March 2025 with a contract win from Catalan research center i2CAT to establish a 6G lab for testing future space-based communication technologies.
looking Ahead: Delivery and Operational Timeline
The eight microsatellites are scheduled for delivery by 2027 from Open Cosmos’s Barcelona facilities, with an expected operational lifespan of five years. The Atlantic Constellation represents a significant investment in the future of Earth observation, promising a wealth of data and insights that will benefit Spain, Europe, and the global community for years to come.
