Lisbon has officially become a global hub for Internet of Things (IoT) satellites, following the recent launch of several nanosatellites by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets. This significant development includes the introduction of Spanish FOSSASat nanosatellites and Portuguese satellites PoSAT-2 and PROMETHEUS-1, marking a new era in satellite technology and connectivity.
The Launch Event
On the 14th of this month, FOSSA Systems inaugurated its global hub for IoT devices in Lisbon, coinciding with the launch of three new FOSSASat nanosatellites. This event also featured the launch of the Portuguese satellites PoSAT-2, developed by LusoSpace, and PROMETHEUS-1, created by the University of Minho.
Details of the Satellites
- PoSAT-2: This satellite is the first in a planned constellation of 12 microsatellites, with a total budget of €20 million. It will be positioned in low Earth orbit, approximately 500 kilometers above the International Space Station, to monitor maritime traffic. The project is partly funded by the EU Recovery and Resilience Plan.
- PROMETHEUS-1: A small cube satellite measuring just five centimeters on each side and weighing 250 grams. It is equipped with guidance systems, a battery, and a camera similar to those found in mobile phones, enabling it to capture images and assess the performance of software and hardware in space.
FOSSA Systems’ Vision
FOSSA Systems has chosen Lisbon as the core of its global research and development strategy for IoT satellite connectivity. The CEO, Julián Fernández, emphasized that FOSSA is the only European company that integrates the entire process of designing, developing, manufacturing, and operating IoT satellites.
The company plans to expand its satellite constellation to 80 units in the coming years, aiming to provide real-time connectivity across the globe. This expansion is part of FOSSA’s strategy to lead the European market and eventually establish a global presence in IoT connectivity solutions via satellites.
Economic Impact
The establishment of this hub in Lisbon marks the beginning of a commercial phase for FOSSA Systems, which has already seen a remarkable 500% growth in revenue in 2024. The company aims to sustain this growth trend into 2025, contributing significantly to the local economy and positioning Portugal as a key player in the global space industry.
Conclusion
Lisbon’s emergence as a global hub for IoT satellites represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of satellite technology and connectivity. With the successful launch of these satellites and the establishment of FOSSA Systems’ hub, Portugal is set to play a crucial role in the future of IoT solutions worldwide.
