Creotech Instruments has started work on the MESEO project, aiming to develop, prototype, and demonstrate a new generation satellite Earth observation system leveraging on-satellite massive data processing. Creotech is tasked with supplying and integrating the HyperSat satellite platform with a Satlantis telescope, which boasts a resolution of less than 1 meter. Furthermore, the platform will communicate with the ground segment provided by the project’s leader, GMV, as well as a satellite-based image processing computer employing AI algorithms developed by Ubotica. Creotech’s participation in the international MESEO project marks a significant step in the development of its proprietary HyperSat platform, which will be customized to meet new specifications and enhanced to include AI-driven on-orbit image processing capabilities. The platform’s integration process and the opportunity to share knowledge with partners are expected to foster the future development of the company’s products incorporating sophisticated data processing algorithms. The MESEO project involves nine partners from seven different countries, including Spain’s GMV (leader) and France’s Airbus, as well as Ubotica, Resolvo, Satlantis, Sistema, the University of Ferrara, and Sovity. The project is scheduled for completion in November 2026.

Developing and commercializing the proprietary HyperSat platform is a strategic component for Creotech Instruments, enabling the company to become a leading provider of microsatellite technology for defense and commercial projects within the EU. The HyperSat platform’s first orbital test is planned for 2024, during the EagleEye mission.

“Creotech Instruments’ inclusion in the MESEO project represents a significant opportunity for us to acquire unique expertise in data processing technology using AI. Our HyperSat satellite platform, which will communicate with Ubotica’s image processing computer, will be enhanced to offer this functionality. Ubotica, which recently announced a partnership with IBM to facilitate the secure and rapid deployment of AI applications on satellites, counts among its clients renowned players such as Thales and NASA. Strengthening business relations with consortium members and the chance to enhance the HyperSat platform’s capabilities are among the most critical aspects of our participation in the MESEO project, where we are the sole Polish representative,” remarked Grzegorz Brona, PhD, President of the Management Board (CEO) of Creotech Instruments S.A.

The MESEO (Multi-Mission Efficient and Secure High Capacity End-to-End Earth Observation) initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and security of Earth observation from space. It focuses on developing advanced systems and technologies for the effective collection, processing, and distribution of satellite-obtained data. The MESEO project is designed to support numerous future space missions by ensuring high throughput and secure data communication between satellites and ground stations, crucial for environmental monitoring, crisis management, and other Earth observation applications. The system under development will be open, scalable, and capable of advanced on-satellite image processing using AI algorithms.

GMV is a Spanish technology company founded in 1984, specializing in the space sector, cybersecurity, and defense solutions. In the space industry, GMV develops advanced navigation systems, satellite software, and operational technologies, serving as a key supplier to space agencies, including ESA and NASA. In 2022, the company’s revenue exceeded 300 million EUR. GMV employs over 3,000 staff across offices in 12 countries and has a branch in Poland.

“In the MESEO project, our responsibility will be to deliver and integrate the HyperSat platform with a Satlantis telescope. This marks the first integration of HyperSat with an optical telescope offering better than 1-meter resolution. The ground segment, facilitating communication with the satellite system, will be provided by the consortium leader, Spain’s GMV. The primary goal of this EU co-funded project is to prototype an open, flexible, scalable, and multi-mission comprehensive Earth observation system that utilizes mass data processing. We anticipate that the ecosystem of interoperable products developed within the consortium will support various future space missions,” adds Grzegorz Brona.

Quality of service and responsiveness will improve through enhancements at different levels of the Earth observation chain. This includes data reduction on the satellite using efficient onboard computers and AI algorithms, which will reduce the required communication bandwidth. An essential aspect will also involve introducing improvements that reduce the satellite’s electrical power requirements. The performance improvement analysis will focus on bottlenecks in observation data processing, both onboard and on Earth. The MESEO prototype will be demonstrated in applications focused on methane monitoring and crop classification. The project is co-financed by the European Union under the Horizon Europe program, with a budget of approximately EUR 2.3m.

HyperSat is Poland’s first satellite platform, consisting of modular subsystems, allowing for the scalable design and production of satellites weighing from 10 kg to several dozen kilograms. These satellites serve various purposes, including image reconnaissance, telecommunications, and navigation from low Earth orbit. Creotech Instruments has been developing HyperSat since 2017 with the support of experts from the European Space Agency. The platform aligns with European design and construction standards for satellite systems (ECSS). The platform is the foundation of the EagleEye mission slated for 2024, and the PIAST mission. The company also plans to leverage it in strategic defense initiatives at national and European levels.

Project website: https://meseoproject.eu

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