Airbus Defence and Space to Build Peru's First Earth Observation Satellite

Airbus Defence and Space, the world's number one exporter of Earth observation satellites and the world's second largest space company, has just been selected as sole prime contractor to develop, construct and launch the first Earth observation optical satellite system for Peru, with the support of the French government.

The system includes a latest-generation optical satellite with its very high-resolution instrument (from the Naomi family, combining the company's very best expertise in optical instrumentation), and a ground control segment, image reception and processing centre. The project also includes a complete training programme for Peruvian engineers and technicians (including satellite operations for developing tailored imaging applications).

Ahead of entry into service of the Peruvian satellite, Airbus Defence and Space will download data and images from its fleet of optical and radar satellites direct into Peru. "With this first satellite system, Peru will acquire space capability at a very high level, and we are delighted to have been selected for our technology and expertise, particularly in the field of silicon carbide," said François Auque, Head of Space Systems, at the signing ceremony.

"In winning this contract, Airbus Defence and Space reinforces its position as the world's number one exporter of Earth observation satellites of all types and resolution levels." This programme will be based on the Astrobus platform, which employs technologies that combine performance, rapidity of construction and unparalleled value for money, designed for missions as varied as imaging (Pleiades, SPOT 67, Ingenio, KazEOSat-1), the environment (Sentinel-2) and meteorology (Sentinel-5p). This sophisticated system also benefits from the unique expertise developed by Airbus Defence and Space in the field of silicone carbide (SiC) space structures and instruments. Together with its partner Boostec, the company has created, through a series of achievements in space (Herschel, Gaia, KazEOSat-1, etc.), a new successful economic sector. The SiC produced in the Midi- Pyrénées region is exported worldwide.

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