NanoAvionics introduces new satellite platforms for advanced Earth observation missions

Kongsberg NanoAvionics has introduced a new generation of its MP42 microsatellite platform family, including the new 500 kg-class MP42D. The platforms are designed to support increasingly demanding missions including high-resolution optical Earth observation, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), thermal infrared imaging and radio-frequency monitoring.

The MP42D is the largest platform in the company’s range, supporting payloads of up to 250 kg. According to NanoAvionics, it can accommodate very high-resolution optical imaging, advanced SAR and metre-class mid-wave infrared payloads, as well as high-power antennas for satellite communications.

The platform can also be configured with optical intersatellite links providing up to 2.5 Gbps connectivity, supporting near-real-time satellite tasking and data delivery. Across the wider Gen-2 MP42 family, NanoAvionics has increased downlink data rates by more than three times and introduced improvements in pointing accuracy, satellite agility and resistance to GNSS jamming and spoofing.

Several of the new-generation platforms have already been built or delivered. Customers include Satlantis and SuperSharp, whose BlueMoon satellite will carry the deployable Hibiscus thermal infrared telescope, targeting approximately 3-metre ground sampling distance. Further platforms and satellite solutions have been ordered by Kreios Space, KONGSBERG and governmental and defence customers.

KONGSBERG has ordered three maritime surveillance satellites for its N3X constellation, which will support operational requirements of the Norwegian Armed Forces. NanoAvionics positions the new platforms within KONGSBERG’s broader space capabilities, which extend from satellite payloads and spacecraft to ground station infrastructure, satellite operations, data processing and analytics.

The first five Gen-2 MP42 platforms represent more than €10 million in contracted value, including project-specific support, according to NanoAvionics. The satellites are scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter of 2026 and during 2027.

About Kongsberg NanoAvionics

Kongsberg NanoAvionics is a small satellite mission integrator focused on building new generation satellite buses and providing end-to-end mission services. NanoAvionics is setting the industry benchmark for small satellites, delivering the right balance between cost, performance and reliability, which enables a wide range of satellite applications. Since 2014, more than 190 customers in 50 countries have trusted NanoAvionics to deliver space solutions that maximize mission success and accelerate return on satellite investment. As a subsidiary of KONGSBERG, we bring together agility and innovation with the heritage and robustness of one the most trusted technology groups. For more information, please visit: https://nanoavionics.com