Startical Has Launched Its First Satellite, IOD-1

Startical, a company created by ENAIRE and Indra to optimise air traffic management from space, has launched its first satellite, the IOD-1 (In-Orbit Demonstrator-1), via launch integrator Exolaunch as part of the Transporter-13 rideshare mission with SpaceX. Startical has entrusted Danish company GomSpace with the satellite’s manufacturing, while its specification and validation have been carried out by Indra with support from ENAIRE. Additionally, Exolaunch has been selected for the satellite’s integration into the rocket and its subsequent deployment into orbit. The launch took place from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Equipped with a powerful VHF antenna and an ADS-B surveillance system, IOD-1 aims to demonstrate the feasibility of real-time communications between air traffic controllers and aircraft using signals transmitted from space. The satellite is part of ECHOES project, which aims to gather evidence on how this satellite-based solution can enhance ATM services and generate positive environmental effects. The project is co-funded by the European Union through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and managed by the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), with support from the SESAR Joint Undertaking.