Space Norway and Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. (SSTL) have announced a collaborative effort to develop a radar satellite aimed at enhancing maritime domain awareness. The announcement, made on September 19, 2023, marks the beginning of what could be a series of similar spacecraft focused on monitoring the vast expanses of the ocean, particularly the North Atlantic region.
The satellite, weighing approximately 400 kilograms, is equipped with a C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) designed for effective data collection over large maritime areas. Scheduled for launch in early 2027 as part of a SpaceX rideshare mission, the satellite aims to address significant gaps in monitoring energy infrastructure, fisheries, and underwater cables in this critical area.
Alex da Silva Curiel, head of international business at SSTL, emphasized the importance of this mission during an interview at World Space Business Week, stating, “The North Atlantic has a lot of energy infrastructure, fisheries and underwater cables that are basically not monitored today, or not very well. This system is going to provide that level of security and monitor the entire North Atlantic on a regular daily basis.”
Innovative Surveillance Capabilities
SSTL is responsible for constructing the satellite, while Space Norway will provide the payload and manage its operations. The collaboration aims to leverage unique capabilities, offering high-resolution SAR data across wide areas. This functionality will allow the satellite to track vessels in real-time, integrating data with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) sensor also onboard.
Marte Kalveland, director of Earth observation and innovation at Space Norway, noted the satellite’s potential impact on global surveillance capabilities. “Once operational, the satellites will offer a unique capacity for surveillance of large areas with real-time high resolution, and we look forward to offering this to the global market,” she stated.
The initial customer for this satellite is the Norwegian armed forces, who will utilize its capabilities for national security. However, there will also be provisions for other clients interested in monitoring various regions worldwide.
Future Expansion Plans
This radar satellite represents the first in a proposed constellation of up to six satellites. The aim is to establish a system that can provide comprehensive monitoring of the North Atlantic every few hours. The companies have indicated that they are open to adding more satellites to accommodate additional customers’ requirements.
This collaboration between Space Norway and SSTL highlights a significant step towards improving maritime safety and security in one of the world’s busiest ocean regions. With the launch set for 2027, the industry will be watching closely as this initiative unfolds.