In two years, a Polish research nanosatellite will be launched into orbit as part of the SPARK project of the Łukasiewicz Research Network, the network announced in a press release.
The project is said to be part of the global trend of transitioning from the traditional space industry to a dynamically developing space economy, in which space is becoming an integral element of modern supply chains, technologies, and production. It will result in the launch of a Polish CubeSat 3U research satellite into Earth orbit, enabling the testing of Polish technologies in space conditions.
It was indicated that SPARK (Spacecraft Platform Architecture for Research and Key-enabling missions) is a joint undertaking of the Łukasiewicz Research Network, to which three institutes have been appointed: Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation (project leader), Łukasiewicz – Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals and Łukasiewicz – Industrial Institute of Automation and Measurements PIAP.
The SPARK research satellite will enable research and testing of components developed in Poland, including avionics systems, power sources, on-board computers and communication solutions.
The project is a consequence of the implementation of the strategy adopted by the Łukasiewicz Research Network, which assumes, among others: the development of dual-use projects (civilian and military, dual-use) and the building of sovereign space competences.
SPARK was also noted as a response to the needs of the National Space Program and the Polish Space Strategy. Thanks to the project's implementation, Polish technologies will gain flight heritage – confirmation of their operation in orbital conditions, significantly increasing their credibility and export potential.
“SPARK focuses on the practical development of satellite engineering, covering the full mission life cycle: from the conceptual phase and design of platform elements, through integration and environmental testing, to the operational use of the satellite in orbit,” said Cezary Szczepański, director of Łukasiewicz – ILOT, quoted in the press release.
“We are building a space laboratory where a variety of research can be conducted. We want our satellites to enable Polish universities, institutes, and businesses to conduct experiments in microgravity in the near future. This will enable the implementation of processes that would be impossible or very expensive on Earth,” he added.
The project will be implemented over a 30-month period. (PAP Biznes)
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