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An initiative formed by private companies and universities
On October 17, 2023, Sevilla hosted the official presentation of the Alpha Mission at the incomparable setting of the Real Alcazar de Sevilla, in the presence of numerous media, authorities, and aerospace professionals.
The Alpha Mission achieved one of its initial milestones by presenting a 3D replica of the satellite. This journey will culminate in 2025 with the satellite’s launch into orbit. Alter Technologies, CactusSoft, Indaero Grupo Emergy, and Integrasys promote the project. Additionally, the universities of Sevilla and Cádiz, along with the Ontech Innovation and Smart City Cluster clusters, are collaborating.”
CactusSoft is responsible for developing the communications module of Alpha3 and the ground station in this project. Additionally, CactusSoft holds the role of the technical leader of the Alpha Mission.
“We see space as an opportunity to address some of the challenges we face as a species, In this context, the application of cutting-edge software and AI solutions in our projects could potentially contribute to addressing challenges such as drought and climate change “explained Jose Laffitte, Head of Engineering at CactusSoft and technical coordinator of the Mission.
“At CactusSoft, we are already implementing the concept of ‘Accelerating Innovation through cutting-edge software and AI solutions’ in our projects, especially in New Space Projects. AI plays a pivotal role in various aspects, such as Data Analysis, Autonomous Systems, Predictive Maintenance, Image Recognition and Processing, Communication and Navigation among other applications. By leveraging AI in these specific areas, New Space projects can achieve greater efficiency, reliability, and innovation, leading to significant advancements in space exploration, research, and commercial activities.” as mentioned by Jose Laffitte.
Alpha3 will be the first satellite with 100% technology developed in Andalusia that can contribute to developing solutions against drought and climate change. The Alpha3 satellite, with dimensions of 30 cm wide by 80 cm high and an approximate weight of 1.3 kg, will collect data on radiation and magnetism that directly affect the climate. It is scheduled to be launched into orbit in 2025 and will maintain a flight at approximately 700 km from Earth, with an estimated LEO orbit duration of one and a half years.
Mission Alpha is an initiative financed by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism within the AEI support program to contribute to improving the competitiveness of the Spanish industry, and with the support of the European Union through the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.
