Alba Orbital, the Glasgow-based satellite company, closed a deal with Turkish space startup Hello Space, to launch four ‘rubik’s-cube-sized’ satellites into space via Elon Musk’s SpaceX rocket.

The collaboration stems from the success of Hello Space’s previous demonstration satellite mission named ‘Istanbul’ in 2023, in partnership with Alba Orbital. The new satellites, referred to as PocketQubes, will aim to bolster global connectivity through the Internet of Things (IoT).

Under the terms of the contract, Alba Orbital will deploy four ‘3p’ PocketQubes, each measuring a mere 5 x 5 x 15cm, into space aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, with launches scheduled in Q4 2024 and Q1 2025. 

These satellites will orbit the Earth in a Sun Synchronous orbit, contributing to Hello Space’s efforts to expand their commercial IoT network and enhance connectivity worldwide.

PocketQubes, despite their diminutive size – 5 centimetres per side and weighing less than 250 grams each, they offer a cost-effective and adaptable platform for diverse space-based applications, with launch costs as low as 25,000 Euros per satellite, making space exploration more accessible.

Recommended reading

• Scots Engineering Adopts IoT for Energy Savings with CENSIS Funds
• New Funding Seeks to Make Satellites More Sustainable
• £2M Available for Satellite Refuelling Feasibility Studies

“We are thrilled to work alongside Hello Space again and to continue to help them achieve their orbital ambitions. PocketQubes offer unparalleled advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, versatility, and scalability, making them an ideal platform for driving innovation in satellite technology,” said Tom Walkinshaw, CEO of Alba Orbital.

Minster for exports Lord Malcolm Offord commented on the news, saying: “This is more encouraging news for Scotland’s thriving space industry.

“Alba Orbital are leading the way in the production of miniature satellites and this agreement will see their technology being used in many more missions.

“It once again shows the demand around the globe that exists for the amazing products we make here in Scotland.”