ESA-supported Space INSPIRE product line makes next step to launch
The first Space INSPIRE (INstant SPace In-orbit REconfiguration) propulsion system module, recently completed at Thales Alenia Space's Belfast facility, has now arrived in Cannes for integration into the ASTRA 1Q satellite, the first of the Space INSPIRE product line which is scheduled for launch in 2026. The product line is supported by ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programmes (Competitiveness & Growth and Novacom II), as well as French Space Agency (CNES - Centre National d´Etudes Spatiales) and UK Space Agency (UKSA).
Space INSPIRE represents a critical evolution in satellite telecommunications technology, featuring fully software-defined payload architecture that enables complete in-orbit reconfiguration. This technical capability allows satellite operators to dynamically reallocate frequency bands, power, and coverage areas throughout the satellite's operational lifespan, enabling adaptability to shifting market demands and emerging service requirements, a new capability not found in traditional fixed-configuration satellites.
With 75% of the equipment already delivered for ASTRA 1Q, the project demonstrates how strategic public investment through ARTES can accelerate the commercialisation timeline for advanced space technologies, with the Novacom II programme being supported by ten ESA Member States.
The market validation of the Space INSPIRE platform, which will operate in geostationary orbit, is evident in the commercial adoption by multiple satellite operators including SES, Arabsat, Intelsat, Eutelsat, and SKY Perfect JSAT. Each has entrusted deploying Space INSPIRE platforms to address their individual challenges, markets and customers, from broadcasting to telecommunications and navigation services.
The Space INSPIRE programme exemplifies the European approach to space industry development, combining institutional support through ESA's ARTES programme, national support through CNES and UKSA, and private sector innovation from Thales Alenia Space and its European supply chain partners. This collaborative model has proven effective in maintaining European technological sovereignty while fostering industrial competitiveness in global satellite communications markets.
"ESA is proud to have supported the technological and commercial development of the Space INSPIRE product line," explains Etienne Brouillard, Novacom II project manager. "By providing co-funding through both the Competitiveness & Growth and Novacom II programmes, ESA and our national agency partners, have helped support Thales Alenia Space in driving an innovative product line for the benefit of our Member States’ technological and industrial competitiveness."
“Space INSPIRE will be a game changer in the future telecommunications geostationary landscape,” said Thales Alenia Space CEO Hervé Derrey. “The satellites based on this product lines will be digitalised, extremely agile as they will be reprogrammable in orbit. I want to sincerely thank CNES, ESA and the UK space agency for supporting the development of this promising product line as well as our customers for putting their trust in our company”.
Craig Brown Investment Director at the UK Space Agency said, "The arrival of the first Space INSPIRE propulsion module in Cannes marks a significant milestone for Thales Alenia Space in the UK. The UK Space Agency is pleased to have supported the development of this novel propulsion technology through ESA, enabling a new era of flexible, software-defined satellites. “This achievement showcases the UK’s commitment to advancing commercial space capabilities that benefit both industry and society."