The Enxaneta successfully completes its mission and re-enters the atmosphere sustainably

he Enxaneta nanosatellite has successfully completed its mission and reentered the atmosphere after more than three years in a low Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone in the NewSpace Strategy led by the Government of Catalonia. Over its three years in orbit, Enxaneta not only validated the feasibility of IoT satellite connectivity but also reinforced a strong commitment to space sustainability.

The mission, supervised by the Institute of Space Studies of Catalonia (IEEC) and carried out in collaboration with Sateliot, adhered strictly to the European Space Agency’s (ESA) space debris mitigation guidelines. This approach, aligned with European standards, underscores the dedication to a responsible and sustainable use of space.

Open Cosmos played a crucial role in designing, developing, and building the Enxaneta nanosatellite in collaboration with Sateliot. Over the course of 12 months, Open Cosmos worked to integrate an IoT payload into a 3-unit CubeSat, which successfully connected with a wide network of ground sensors. Since its launch in March 2021, the satellite began downloading data and demonstrated its capability to connect sensors in rural and remote areas, providing automated monitoring services every 24 hours.

Enxaneta not only demonstrated the technological maturity of communications based on non-terrestrial networks but also contributed to reducing the digital divide in areas with limited connectivity. This achievement is complemented by its sustainable reentry, controlled in accordance with ESA standards, minimising environmental impact and helping to preserve space for future missions.

This success showcases Open Cosmos and Sateliot's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the space sector, solidifying their leadership in developing technological solutions that not only drive the space economy but also ensure a more sustainable future for all.

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