Spanish startup launches 14th satellite, eyes defense comms
Hydra Space Systems, a Barcelona-based startup, has quietly but decisively strengthened its position in the burgeoning small satellite market. Their latest launch, the SpinnyOne, marks the 14th satellite to successfully reach orbit for the company, a feat achieved in a remarkably short timeframe and with a focus on securing critical communications infrastructure.
Pocket-sized powerhouse validates secure voice tech
SpinnyOne, a PocketQube – essentially a ‘satellite in a shoebox’ – isn’t just about size; it's a proving ground. The mission is designed to validate low-power, secure communication protocols and test microgravity experiments, a critical step for applications demanding resilience and operational efficiency. Crucially, Hydra Space is demonstrating its ability to rapidly deploy dedicated satellite infrastructure in low Earth orbit (LEO), a capability particularly valuable for defense and sovereign communications needs.
This latest launch highlights a collaborative approach, with Hydra Space acting as the technological facilitator for Edinburgh-based startup Spinning Around. The SpinnyOne carries Spinning Around’s microgravity experiment, part of Hydra Space’s burgeoning in-orbit validation service—a revenue stream the company is actively cultivating for both commercial and institutional clients. The Spanish Space Agency's recent announcement of 16 new fixed-term positions underscores the growing importance of this sector within Spain.
Six-month build time: a newspace philosophy
The PocketQube was developed and constructed in a record six months, a testament to Hydra Space’s agile methodology. It’s serving as a live testbed for critical communications, incorporating a prototype of optimized digital voice Technology designed to operate within a narrow bandwidth. The seemingly niche application – transmitting pre-recorded segments of 'Don Quixote' – serves a purpose: validating a secure communications infrastructure specifically tailored for LEO environments and potentially compatible with existing military and security radio systems.
“This milestone showcases our ability to design, build, and deliver connectivity solutions with agility and efficiency, all done in-house,” stated Pablo Durbán, CEO of Hydra Space Systems. The company’s ambition extends beyond simply reaching orbit; it’s about fostering European technological sovereignty in space, a goal increasingly vital in an era of heightened digital competition. The fact that initial signals from the satellite were received within hours of launch confirms its operational readiness.
Democratizing space access & rapid iteration
Beyond its own internal development, Hydra Space is actively democratizing access to space Technology. The SpinnyOne has been enabled for use by radio enthusiasts, allowing them to receive telemetry and even establish voice calls using standard equipment. This open access approach transforms the satellite into a distributed testing platform for Hydra’s space Technology. Following the successful launch aboard SpaceX's Transporter-16 mission, alongside 119 other satellites, Hydra Space is already planning its next launch—scheduled for June aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-17.
“We’ve gone from concept to orbit in just six months—that’s the essence of the NewSpace philosophy,” remarked Alastair Broom, CEO and founder of Spinning Around, from Edinburgh. Hydra Space’s rapid iteration cycle—launching a satellite every six months—allows for continuous improvement and the testing of new systems, like enhanced digital voice and high-speed data transmission capabilities. Eduardo Alonso, CTO of Hydra Space, emphasized their focus on compatibility with standard voice terminals currently used by defense and security forces.
With a 100% national Technology validated in orbit and a rapid deployment model, Hydra Space is positioning itself as a strategic partner for integrators and institutions seeking sovereign communications capabilities. The company hopes to soon collaborate with PLD Space, realizing a fully Spanish space project. The race to secure LEO isn't just about launching satellites; it's about building a resilient, independent ecosystem – and Hydra Space is clearly gaining ground.