NanoAvionics Secures €122.5M Contract to Build 280 Satellites for Meridian Space, SpinLaunch’s Global Broadband Constellation

The partnership between SpinLaunch and NanoAvionics includes two prototypes, one of which is an in-orbit demonstrator (IOD) mission planned for 2026, as well as the development and serial production of 280 satellites.

Beyond the initial batch of 280 satellites, the Meridian Space constellation will grow to at least 1,200 satellites, as outlined in the company’s 2021 spectrum filings. To meet the 280-satellite constellation production schedule, NanoAvionics will ramp up its manufacturing capabilities with the addition of a new assembly and testing facility at its European headquarters in Vilnius, Lithuania. NanoAvionics also aims to continue supporting Meridian Space in scaling the initial network through its experience in serial production and system customization.

Using a proprietary suite of groundbreaking technologies, including ultra-efficient reflectarray antennas, first-of-its-kind orbital architecture featuring a repeating ground track, as well as simplified user terminals and gateways, the Meridian Space satellite network will deliver affordable broadband connectivity worldwide. Its unique design, combined with the high-performance avionics and payload, will allow the satellites to deliver uninterrupted global connectivity with terabits-per-second capacity in a single rocket launch. The network is designed to meet the growing demand for flexible, high-speed and secure satellite communication services for enterprise users globally.