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Open Cosmos: Reflecting on a Transformative 2024 and What Lies Ahead

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s 2024 draws to a close, we at Open Cosmos are taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with achievements, innovations and partnerships to address global challenges using space technologies.

Major Milestones in 2024

This year has been transformational  for Open Cosmos, with significant milestones that include:

- More successful satellite launches keeping our 100% success rate in orbit with satellites such as:

  • HAMMER: A groundbreaking UK mission joining the OpenConstellation that is capable of taking hyperspectral images, process them on-board to extract key insights and deliver them to the user in near-real time through intersatellite link.
  • PhiSat-2: A cutting-edge AI-enabled satellite for the ESA, launched to demonstrate advanced imaging and data processing technology on the edge. This mission exemplifies our commitment to integrating artificial intelligence with space-based solutions.

- Some key contracts signed:

  • The Greek EO constellation: A contract for seven Open Constellation satellites for the Greek government to monitor the effects of climate, maritime monitoring among other critical national needs.
  • NanoMagSat:  A contract for three advanced scientific satellites for ESA to monitor the magnetic field of Earth and the ionospheric environment.
  • LINO/STERLING: A pioneering satellite for the ESA that will function as a lab to support the next generation of 6G connectivity infrastructure.
  • PhotSat: An astrophysics satellite mission for IEEC that will track the 10 million brightest stars and other astrophysical objects. 

Expanding Our Global Footprint

This year Open Cosmos has also expanded its facilities significantly kicking off two new factories in Europe and expanding the existing ones: :

  • The opening of new offices and satellite manufacturing facilities in Greece and Portugal, which expand our operational and engineering capabilities across Europe.
  • The expansion of our clean rooms in Barcelona and the setup of several innovation offices across Spain.
  • The growth of our UK facilities with the development of a new building in Harwell Campus with UKSA’s funding support through the SCIF program that will triple our footprint and the opening of our new Leicester Park office. 

These strategic expansions not only enhance our ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions but also position us to better serve a global network of partners and clients.

Empowering People and Fostering Culture

People are the heart of Open Cosmos, and 2024 has been a year of growth and community engagement. We welcomed  over 80 new team members, who brought fresh perspectives and skills to our mission. Our Inclusion Fusion initiative saw employees across the globe unite to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and equality through Pride, International Men’s day, and celebrating our international cultures.

Our team days, including the 9th anniversary of the group and the more recent Christmas days across all sites, brought moments of joy and camaraderie, reminding us that our shared achievements are built on a foundation of teamwork and mutual support.

Data and Impact: Elevating Our Capabilities

In the realm of data solutions, our progress this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. 

We have brought new high and very high multispectral imagery capabilities, hyperspectral, short wave Infra Red to our cloud based Data Cosmos platform. We successfully implemented new quality assurance (QA) features that allow us to refine image processing and ensure the highest data standards for our clients. Our work on developing the GeoPDF export feature has set a new benchmark in how Earth Observation data can be shared effectively during emergencies.

We’ve also optimised our tasking service, significantly reducing processing times and enhancing image acquisition efficiency. With over 74 images captured in a single week and the launch of sophisticated automation processes, our efforts have had a measurable impact on our operational success.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Open Cosmos

As we prepare for 2025, we are filled with excitement for what lies ahead. Our roadmap includes launching new satellite missions, forging strategic global partnerships, and continuing to enhance our data and technology offerings. Projects like HELEO and NanoMagSat will keep us at the forefront of the space industry, delivering unparalleled value to our clients and partners.

Our vision remains steadfast: to make space data accessible and usable for all, while continuously innovating to meet the world's most pressing challenges.

Thank you to our partners, clients, and the broader space community for being an integral part of our 2024 story. Together, we’re reaching new heights and setting the stage for an even more impactful future.

Stay tuned and follow our journey into 2025—where the sky is just the beginning!