Space-based data, analytics and space services provider Spire Global has won a €16m contract with the European Space Agency for the EURIALO aircraft monitoring project.
The firm, which has its maritime team located in Luxembourg, will provide a “system design and in-orbit technology demonstrator for a satellite constellation to monitor flights globally in real-time, developing the most advanced independent civilian aviation surveillance system.”
The EURIALO aircraft monitoring system aims to independently verify the location of a plane through geolocation MLAT technology, enabling the real-time tracking of aircraft from takeoff to landing anywhere in the world.
According to Spire, the company will lead a consortium for the contract, which includes space-based communication, navigation and surveillance services provider European Satellite Services Provider.
The company writes: “Today, surveillance systems often rely on self-reported positions of aircraft, which are derived from GNSS satellites. The need for an additional complementary space solution will provide a fully reliable and resilient surveillance solution completing the European CNS infrastructure.”
“Space-based aircraft tracking and geolocation is the future of air traffic management to ensure safe, secure and sustainable air travel at a global scale,” Spire CEO Peter Platzer said, adding: “We are honored to be selected by ESA to lead the development of this first-of-its-kind aviation surveillance system demonstrator, leveraging our more than 500 years of flight heritage operating satellites in space and expertise in radio frequency technology.”
