Infinite Orbits has entered into a framework agreement with the French Ministry of Defence (MoD) to provide a microsatellite for geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) surveillance.
Scheduled for launch in 2027, the satellite procurement aligns with the objectives of the Action and Resilience in Space (ARES) programme.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) spearheads this initiative for the benefit of the French Space Command (CDE).
Infinite Orbits is set to supply the French Ministry of Defence with the Positioning and Autonomous Laser Assisted Detection in Near-space (PALADIN) satellite, which is part of its Orbit Guard family of servicers.
It will be equipped with a space-based space situational awareness (SSA) set of sensors for passive surveillance and proximity inspection capability for active surveillance.
These GEO microsatellites will also feature Infinite Orbits’ autonomous navigation vision based solution.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThis technology enables them to safely rendezvous with other satellites, approaching within 1km of another asset in orbit.
The agility and responsiveness of Orbit Guard satellites also stem from their design as microsatellites, which allows them to conduct proximity operations while maintaining a mass weight of approximately 100kg.
Infinite Orbits has been supported by the France 2030 investment plan over the last three years, facilitating the acceleration of its technology development through a Newspace approach, including for the Orbit Guard servicers.
The collaboration with the French MoD marks a significant step in protecting strategic French and European assets and enhancing the capabilities of the French Space Command.
Infinite Orbits CCO Marion Andrieux said: “In recent years, our team has focused on developing innovative technologies that enable satellites to acquire new capabilities: surveillance, approach, and docking in orbit.
“We chose to develop these technologies using a Newspace approach, pragmatic and cost-effective, enabling the rapid deployment of our servicers. Today, we are honoured that this approach can be used to improve the operational preparation of CDE protecting the GEO belt.”
