We are revving our engines ahead of the launch. The #SpainSat NG II has been successfully encapsulated in the nose cone of SpaceX's Falcon 9. The media are also eagerly awaiting the early hours of the 23rd (Spanish time). Thanks to @Cuatro and @Gabriel Cruz for this excellent report on Europe's most advanced secure communications satellite, which, together with its twin, #SpainSat NG I, will begin service in the spring of 2026.
This coming morning in Spain (03:30h), the SpainSat NG II satellite will be launched into orbit from Cape Canaveral (Florida) aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, barring any last-minute unforeseen events.This launch completes the Spainsat NG constellation, which will guarantee secure communications for the Armed Forces and allied countries for decades to come, positioning Spain as a benchmark in this field.Hisdesat, owner and operator of SpainSat NG I and II, has been the driving force behind this program for the Ministry of Defense, promoting technological development and the Spanish industry in the sector.SpainSat NG II is part of a twin satellite system, along with SpainSat NG I, which was launched on January 30th and has been operational since August. With an investment of over €2 billion, the new satellites incorporate cutting-edge dual military and civil technology, including the most advanced active antennas in Europe.Weighing over 6 tons and measuring 7.3 meters tall, these satellites, once operational, will provide coverage from Denver to Singapore, ensuring secure communications for more than 15 years.
Falcon Watchers@Falcon9Watchers·B1076 is now vertical at SLC-40 ahead of it's 22nd and final flightThis will be the first time it flies since its 21st flight over 8 months ago, in FebruaryDue to the expendable nature, the booster visibly lacks any landing legs or gridfins
A technical issue with the SpaceX launcher has been resolved, and everything is ready at Cape Canaveral to launch Hisdesat Servicios Estrategicos SA's #SpainSat NG II satellite into orbit.
SpaceX@SpaceXFalcon 9 vertical at pad 40 in Florida ahead of tonight’s launch of the SpainSat NG II mission. Weather is looking good for liftoff in less than one hour
SpaceX@SpaceXThe first stage booster supporting today’s mission previously launched CRS-26, OneWeb Launch 16, Intelsat IS-40e, SES O3b mPOWER-C, Ovzon-3, Eutelsat 26D, Turksat 6A, Maxar 2, SXM-9, and 12 Starlink missions
SpaceX@SpaceXThis launch marks the 22nd and final launch for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting today’s mission as additional performance is required to deliver the SpainSat NG II satellite to geosynchronous orbit.
