Egypt has successfully launched its SPNEX nanosatellite into orbit, with the spacecraft entering its designated trajectory and transmitting its first signals, according to the Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA). The launch took place on December 10 and forms part of Egypt’s national nanosatellite development programme, highlighting the country’s growing capabilities in space technology.
SPNEX functions as a scientific laboratory in space and was developed through collaboration between the EgSA and the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT). The satellite is designed to measure plasma characteristics in the ionosphere, supporting scientific research into the effects of solar and geomagnetic storms, improving ionospheric modelling, and contributing to climate-related studies.
The project was fully developed within Egypt, with design, manufacturing, assembly, integration, testing, and in-orbit operations carried out by national teams. Development began in the first quarter of 2022, with all assembly, integration, and testing completed at the EgSA’s Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) Center in Egyptian Space City.
EgSA said data generated by SPNEX will soon be made available to researchers at Egyptian universities and research centres, supporting scientific research, space applications, and the development of local expertise in satellite technologies.
