- 2026-03-31
- SpaceX Transporter-16 launch extends NanoAvionics’ 100% first-contact success record
- ONERA FlyLab-1 and FlyLab-2 satellites to demonstrate coordinated in-orbit operations
- Modular microsatellite power and communications systems deployed across customer spacecraft
Vilnius, Lithuania, 31 March 2026 – Kongsberg NanoAvionics (NanoAvionics) has successfully established two-way communication with two satellites built for the French Aerospace Lab ONERA following their launch aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-16 rideshare mission on 30 March at 10:19 UTC. The FlyLab-1 and FlyLab-2 CubeSats were deployed into a 590 km sun-synchronous orbit and are now beginning their commissioning phase, marking the start of the FlyLab mission to demonstrate close-proximity formation flying and advanced in-orbit research.
Following a successful launch and initial contact, both satellites are healthy in orbit and entering their commissioning phase. Once operational, the pair will execute coordinated, close-range formation flying maneuvers enabled by high-precision attitude determination and control systems (ADCS).
The FlyLab mission is designed as a multi-disciplinary in-orbit laboratory, combining formation flying with Earth observation and radio frequency (RF) sensing capabilities.
FlyLab-1, based on NanoAvionics‘ 8U CubeSat platform, carries uncooled thermal infrared and visible-spectrum cameras. These payloads will support both formation flying validation and dual-spectrum Earth observation, enabling data collection across complementary spectral bands. The satellite also has an electric propulsion system for fine orbital maneuvers.
FlyLab-2, built on a 6U CubeSat platform, carries a hybrid cold gas propulsion system and focuses on RF sensing and atmospheric research. It is equipped with VHF antennas and a software-defined radio (SDR) to study the ionosphere by receiving signals transmitted from the ground. A second SDR, paired with an L-band antenna, will analyse radar signals from a ground-based transmitter.
Together, the two satellites will demonstrate how coordinated small satellite systems can perform complex missions traditionally reserved for larger spacecraft, including precise orbital manoeuvring.
Transporter-16 also carried NanoAvionics-supplied microsatellite power and communication subsystems integrated in customer-built spacecraft. This highlights the modularity and heritage of NanoAvionics’ subsystem portfolio, supporting flexible, in-house satellite development.
The successful launch marks NanoAvionics’ second mission of the year and brings the total number of company-built satellites launched to more than 55, maintaining a 100% first-contact success rate across all missions.
