Estonian Student Satellite Signs Launch Agreement with Alba Orbital for Innovative SUTS Mission 

Glasgow, Scotland - Alba Orbital has signed a launch agreement with the Estonian Student Satellite Foundation for its SUTS mission. The 3P PocketQube is being developed to demonstrate encrypted optical communications and experimental solar cell technology, with the mission currently aiming for launch in 2028.

Technologies on SUTS

One of the satellite’s payloads, developed by Golbriak Space OÜ and Skudo OÜ, will demonstrate encrypted communication using an optical link between the spacecraft and a ground station. The experiment will test an alternative to conventional radio-based communications. 

SUTS will also carry an experimental solar cell array developed at TalTech, using pyrite-based technology and lunar regolith simulant. The experiment will investigate how these cells perform in the space environment. The work builds on research into solar energy materials and the potential use of lunar-derived resources. 

Developing Estonia’s space engineering expertise 

The project brings together students from different educational institutions across Estonia to work on a shared satellite mission. The foundation aims to give students practical experience in satellite development while encouraging cooperation across the country’s educational and research communities. 

Through hands-on satellite development, science outreach and collaboration with organisations across the public and private sectors, the foundation aims to develop student expertise and contribute to Estonia’s growing space industry. The project also builds on experience gained through earlier Estonian satellite initiatives, including ESTCube and TalTech’s Koit and Hämarik projects. 

The SUTS team works across several engineering disciplines, including mechanics, attitude determination and control, software and electronics. 

From engineering model to flight 

The team is progressing through the engineering development phase ahead of the planned mission. 

The team’s next milestones include completing and documenting the engineering model, carrying out a programme of tests, and progressing to the development and validation of the flight model. 

Alba Orbital CEO Tom Walkinshaw said: “We’ve enjoyed watching the SUTS project develop, especially through the team’s presentations at the PocketQube Conference, and look forward to helping them get their satellite into orbit.” 

Making Space Accessible Through PocketQubes 

SUTS demonstrates how PocketQubes can bring together students, universities and industry partners to develop and test new space technologies through a shared mission. By providing a more accessible route to orbit, PocketQubes create opportunities for hands-on engineering experience, collaborative research and technology demonstrations that might otherwise be out of reach. 

About Estonian Student Satellite Foundation 

The Estonian Student Satellite Foundation brings together students from universities, colleges and high schools across Estonia to develop satellites and promote interest in space science and engineering. 

Website: https://tudengisatelliit.ee/et/ 

About Alba Orbital 

Alba Orbital is a world-leading PocketQube satellite company, having launched more than 62 PocketQubes across 11 missions. The company develops its own Earth observation satellite platforms, AlbaPod deployer and ground stations in-house, supporting customers with easier access to space.