CNES has selected U-Space and Unseenlabs, two innovative space companies, to carry out the FLORE (Flight Demonstration of RoEm) project. This initiative, launched in 2022 in collaboration with the Defense Innovation Agency (AID) and the French defense procurement agency (DGA), aims to demonstrate the capabilities and performance of a radio spectrum observation service from space.
This call for projects aroused strong interest in the space industry, with four consortia competing. After a rigorous selection process, the joint proposal from U Space and Unseenlabs was chosen, highlighting their expertise and innovative vision.
The dual-purpose operational radio spectrum observation service will be demonstrated through the development and operation of a new-generation U-Space microsatellite equipped with a revolutionary Unseenlabs payload. Indeed, Unseenlabs will bring its unique know-how in terms of radio frequency payload, orbiting, satellite operations and the provision of high value-added services. This payload will be highlighted by the U-Space microsatellite, whose expertise and heritage have helped to bring this project to fruition.
This project is distinguished by several innovative aspects. First of all, it introduces a service offering in an area traditionally reserved for legacy capabilities. In addition, the system architecture adopted is resolutely modern, characterized by hardware and software modularity both on board and on the ground, with integrated end-to-end security. Finally, the uniqueness of this initiative lies in the adoption of a single-satellite architecture, whereas existing solutions are traditionally based on three satellites operating in formation.
“We are extremely excited to collaborate with U-Space on this project,” said Mr. Jonathan Galic, President of Unseenlabs. “Our cutting-edge radio frequency payload, combined with U-Space’s innovative satellite platform, opens up new possibilities for observing the radio spectrum from space. We look forward to demonstrating the capabilities and benefits of our operational solution.”
Mr. Fabien Apper, CEO of U-Space, added: “The success of our joint proposal is the result of the synergy between our two companies. By combining our skills, and thanks to Unseenlabs’ industrial expertise, we are both convinced that we can offer a unique and efficient service that will meet the growing needs in radio spectrum observation. We are honored to have been selected to lead this innovative project and we look forward to demonstrating the benefits it will bring.”
The FLORE project represents a major milestone in the development of radio spectrum observation solutions from space. U-Space and Unseenlabs are determined to join forces and apply their skills to successfully complete this ambitious initiative and pave the way for new technological advances.