SpainSat NG-1: SpaceX Launches Next-gen Spanish Communication Satellite

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched the SpainSat Next Generation 1 (SpainSat NG-1) communications satellite from Pad 39A of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 0134 UTC on Jan. 30.

This launch marks a significant milestone for the Spanish space sector, as SpainSat NG-1 is the most advanced secure communications satellite ever built in Europe. The satellite will provide secure communications services to the Spanish government, its allies, and various international organizations, with a coverage area spanning two-thirds of the Earth's surface.

The SpainSat NG-1 satellite is part of the SpainSat NG program, which includes two satellites, SpainSat NG-1 and NG-2, aimed at providing sovereign, secure communications capabilities for government missions.

The satellite features advanced technology, including an active antenna system that can modify its coverage in real-time, and is designed to operate in geostationary orbit for 15 years.

Wednesday's launch was carried out by SpaceX, with the Falcon 9 rocket's first-stage booster (B1073) completing its 21st and final flight, having previously launched several notable missions, including a commercial Japanese moon lander and a resupply mission to the International Space Station