Startical unveils its IOD-2 satellite, a key advancement in air communication and surveillance from space

Startical, a company created by ENAIRE and Indra, takes an important step in aerospace innovation with the presentation of its IOD-2 (In-Orbit Demonstrator-2) satellite, the company’s second to date. The satellite is located at the National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) facilities, where electromagnetic compatibility, vibration, and functional tests are being conducted prior to its launch, scheduled for mid-2025, all aimed at ensuring the satellite’s operability in orbit.

INTA has the only facilities in Spain, and one of the few worldwide, capable of conducting complete satellite tests like the IOD-2 in clean room conditions. “This service is essential for the Spanish business fabric, especially for companies developing satellites, as they are required to carry out this type of test, and being able to perform them within the national territory is of utmost importance,” says Daniel Hernández Gómez, director of the Equipment and Systems Testing Department at the institute.

With a large 4-meter VHF antenna and other systems for aircraft position monitoring (ADS-B), the IOD-2 will demonstrate the viability of a space solution that optimises air traffic management by improving communications between air traffic controllers and pilots, especially in remote and oceanic areas.

Currently, when an aircraft crosses oceanic areas, it may enter zones without real-time voice communication coverage between pilots and controllers. This requires planes to maintain high levels of separation to ensure safety, which reduces the efficiency of airspace use and limits the capacity to handle a large volume of traffic.

The global coverage proposed by Startical allows for much more efficient and safe air traffic management, particularly in contingency situations, such as route changes due to storms or medical emergencies on board. Additionally, it contributes to sustainable aviation, as it allows aircraft to choose optimal routes and thus reduce fuel consumption.