The successful launch of three new satellites for the LUSIADA Constellation on 7 July 2026 marks another major milestone for Portugal's space sector and highlights the growing role of Instituto de Telecomunicações (IT) in advancing next-generation maritime communications through VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) technology.
Led by LusoSpace and supported by a €15 million investment under Portugal's Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), the LUSIADA Constellation is the world's first satellite network based on VDES. The initiative aims to create the "Waze of the Oceans", enabling the secure exchange of real-time maritime data to improve navigation, safety, security, and environmental monitoring on a global scale.
Yesterday's launch (July 7th) added three satellites: Cesário Verde, Florbela Espanca, and Miguel Torga to the constellation, joining the four satellites successfully deployed in March 2026: Camões, Fernando Pessoa, Agustina Bessa-Luís, and José Saramago.
The VDES technology developed with the contribution of researchers from Instituto de Telecomunicações is a key enabler of this pioneering infrastructure. By extending the capabilities of the Automatic Identification System (AIS), VDES provides a high-capacity, bidirectional digital communication channel between ships, satellites, and shore stations, allowing reliable data exchange far beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
With seven satellites now in orbit, the constellation already delivers global coverage for a wide range of civilian and defence applications. Its capabilities include the detection of suspicious maritime activities, support for search-and-rescue missions, transmission of emergency messages, and the sharing of critical information such as iceberg warnings, oil spill alerts, and whale sightings. These services will contribute to safer, smarter, and more sustainable maritime operations worldwide.
The LUSIADA Constellation is planned to comprise 12 satellites. Following one more successful mission, five additional satellites remain to be launched before the constellation reaches full operational capability.
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