The satellite will be part of the ESA OPS-SAT VOLT mission and will host multiple payloads.
The mission, led by Craft Prospect Ltd. (CPL), is under ESA's ARTES Scylight programme. It aims to test and evaluate important real-time techniques and technologies focused on optical and quantum direct-to-earth communication.
The objective is to demonstrate products and services within a Versatile Optical Laboratory for Telecommunications (VOLT). Demonstrations will include quantum key delivery, optical communications, and hyperspectral imagery capture for climate resilience applications. Payload experimentation will be facilitated through a secure, reconfigurable high-performance computing system.
"We are looking forward to working with AAC Clyde Space in Glasgow to develop our unique in-orbit capability with UK partners and wider ESA members to demonstrate products and services for next generation missions in assured end to end processing chains and secure quantum optical communications," says Craft Prospect Managing Director Steve Greenland.
"We are thrilled to receive the first order for the largest satellite solution to date. This will become an integrated part of one of Europe's most innovative and important space missions. The size of the satellite makes it feasible for it to carry several payloads increasing its usefulness and appeal," says AAC Clyde Space CEO Luis Gomes.
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