Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Bright Ascension’s software supports Czech Republic’s TROLL satellite

Defence Space

Bright Ascension’s software supports Czech Republic’s TROLL satellite

Bright Ascension's innovative space software technology is supporting the core functionalities and enabling future tech demos, for the Czech Republic’s largest satellite demonstration mission, TROLL.

Image courtesy Bright Ascension

The TROLL satellite, the Czech Republic’s largest and most ambitious space mission to date, launched yesterday as part of the SpaceX Transporter 12 mission. This milestone not only showcases the Czech Republic’s growing space exploration capabilities but also highlights Scotland based Bright Ascension’s role in advancing the future of space software technology.

Advertisement
Leonardo RT

TROLL, designed and developed by TRL Space, is a 6U CubeSat with the primary goal of demonstrating new technologies in the commercial domain while also building critical heritage for the Czech Republic’s space sector.

Equipped with advanced technologies like an on-board data processing unit and a hyperspectral imager, the spacecraft will provide critical invisible insights to a wide range of industries such as agriculture, environmental organisations and defence.

Building on the success of over 50 missions to date, Bright Ascension’s software infrastructure will play a central role in supporting the satellite’s core functionalities and enabling future technology demonstrations. As TROLL progresses through its life in orbit, it will also make full use of Bright Ascension’s mission control software and its tight integration with the flight side for straightforward and automated mission operations.

Advertisement
Leonardo RT

Peter Mendham (above), CEO of Bright Ascension, said: "We are proud to support the launch of the TROLL satellite, a significant milestone for both TRL Space and the Czech Republic.

"The TROLL spacecraft yet again demonstrates our commitment to transforming the New Space sector through our innovative software solutions. Over time, we would be pleased to enhance the mission with upcoming products of our HELIX suite to offer seamless integration between the operational side and the commercial service delivery.”

Advertisement
General Atomics LB

Defence

16 June 2025

The operation took place in Leith and marked a major milestone in the ship’s build journey. Following a carefully coordinated marine transfer, HMS Venturer has now returned to Babcock's Rosyth facility where outfitting and systems integration will continue in preparation for sea trials.

BAE Systems trialling Avioniq’s decision aid tech on Typhoon

Defence

BAE Systems trialling Avioniq’s decision aid tech on Typhoon

16 June 2025

BAE Systems is working alongside Avioniq to trial AI-driven decision aid technology on Eurofighter Typhoon to explore how it could give fighter jet pilots uniquely optimised threat updates whilst airborne.

Value of aerospace, defence, security and space to UK up 64% in 10 years

Aerospace Defence Security Space

Value of aerospace, defence, security and space to UK up 64% in 10 years

16 June 2025

The UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors added £42.2 billion to the UK economy in 2024, according to new data from ADS, equating to a 64% increase over the last decade.

Babcock and Polish Air Force University team on training

Defence

Babcock and Polish Air Force University team on training

16 June 2025

Babcock and the Polish Air Force University have unveiled plans to use leading edge technology and sensory rich training to prepare military personnel for the fast-changing nature of modern warfare.

Advertisement
Leonardo RT
PTC unveils Onshape

Aerospace Defence Events

PTC unveils Onshape's advanced MBD capabilities at Paris Air Show

13 June 2025

PTC has unveiled its model-based definition (MBD) capabilities within its Onshape computer-aided design (CAD) and product data management (PDM) platform - with Aura Aero - at the Paris Air Show.

UK Defence Secretary opens artillery factory in Sheffield

Defence Events

UK Defence Secretary opens artillery factory in Sheffield

13 June 2025

The UK Defence Secretary John Healey has officially opened a landmark £25 million BAE Systems artillery factory that is the first to restore critical gun barrel manufacturing capability in the UK.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025