In the framework of the New Space & Solutions event held in Seville this month, RIDE! has officially signed a partnership agreement with the Microwave Applications Group of iTEAM to support the launch of PoliTech-1, the first nanosatellite fully designed and manufactured in the Valencian Community of Spain. The agreement was formalized during the week of the event at the headquarters of the Spanish Space Agency.
PoliTech-1 is a 3U CubeSat developed at UPV as part of a comprehensive educational and research initiative dedicated to astrophysics and Earth observation applications. The satellite represents a major milestone in regional innovation and strengthens Valencia’s position within Spain’s growing space ecosystem.
The mission payload includes a compact Earth observation camera capable of capturing high-quality imagery, supported by a directive C-band communications antenna to enable high-data-rate image downlink. The satellite is also equipped with advanced attitude and orbit control systems to ensure operational precision. Additional onboard technology includes a gamma and neutron detector to measure cosmic radiation and assess space weather conditions.
PoliTech-1 is designed for an expected operational lifetime of two years, powered by body-mounted solar cells. The platform features multiple communication systems, including deployable crossed-dipole telecommand antenna with circular polarization in the UHF band, and the aforementioned C-band patch antenna for high-speed science data transmission. The satellite platform is manufactured by the Spanish company EMXYS located in Elche.
“This agreement with RIDE! has marked a milestone for the Universitat Politècnica de València and for the entire Valencian Community,” highlighted the Rector, José Capilla, who stressed that PoliTech-1 “has been the first satellite designed entirely in our region, the result of the talent, technological capability, and forward-looking vision of our university community.” In this regard, he stated that “this project has strengthened Valencia’s position within the Spanish space ecosystem and has demonstrated the key role of the university as a driving force for innovation, knowledge, and economic development.”