The Czech satellite SATurnin-1, developed by VZLU AEROSPACE, has sent an image of Prague from orbit. The satellite has been in orbit since January of this year, and capturing images is its primary mission.
SATurnin-1 is the largest operational Czech satellite in space. Its solar panel span measures 87 cm, while the satellite body has dimensions of 32 cm x 22.5 cm x 22.5 cm. This scientific and research mission focuses on modern remote sensing technologies. SATurnin-1’s primary mission is capturing images of designated areas. A higher-resolution version of the pictures below can be found at this link. However, even there, the published photograph is not in full resolution.
The satellite’s key components were developed in the Czech Republic and integrated in so-called “clean rooms” at the VZLU AEROSPACE facility in Letňany, Prague. Onboard data are processed using artificial intelligence algorithms. “The acquisition of the first images is proof of the high quality and reliability of Czech space technologies. The SATurnin-1 satellite strengthens the Czech Republic’s position in space activities and contributes to our capabilities in defense and security,” states Josef Kašpar, General Director of VZLU AEROSPACE.
The satellite was developed with full support from the Ministry of Defense. “The images captured by the SATurnin-1 satellite expand the portfolio of information sources that specialists at the Military Intelligence Satellite Center use for imagery intelligence tasks in defense and security,” said Major General Petr Bartovský, Director of Military Intelligence.
The initial design was created in 2022, with integration starting in 2023 and completed in 2024. SATurnin-1 was then transported from the Czech Republic to the United States in October 2024 for its launch. The names of those involved in its development are engraved on the inner side of one of the satellite’s walls.
