The fourth Portuguese satellite, developed this time by the University of Minho, is being created. Named Prometheus-1, this new satellite is expected to be sent into space in January 2025 and promises to innovate in scientific research and teaching in aerospace engineering. This milestone coincides with the 50th anniversary of the University of Minho and consolidates the Portuguese presence in the space sector.

The University of Minho (UMinho) takes a significant leap forward in space exploration with the launch of its first satellite and scientific project PROMETHEUS-1 – PocketQube Framework Designed for Research and Educational Access to Space – funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, within the scope of the CMU Portugal International Partnership Program.
A CubeSat that will be placed in orbit at an altitude of 500 kilometers from the Vandenberg spaceport in California, aboard a Space X Falcon 9 rocket. The mission, which celebrates UMinho’s 50th anniversary, aims to contribute to the advancement of scientific and pedagogical knowledge in aerospace engineering, placing Portugal on the map of nations with technological capacity in this sector.

With just five centimeters on a side and 250 grams, the satellite was designed to collect useful data for the academic and scientific community. In addition, it will serve as a practical laboratory for students, allowing them to validate engineering concepts and monitor the operation of the device in orbit. This is the third license granted by ANACOM, which highlighted the launch as a milestone in the national space ecosystem, bringing together innovation, sustainability and compliance with international standards.

A project that unites science, education and industry
Developed within the scope of the scientific project “PROMETHEUS – PocketQube Framework Designed for Research and Educational Access to Space”, the satellite is the result of a collaboration between UMinho, Instituto Superior Técnico, Carnegie Mellon University and specialized companies such as Alba Orbital and Fossa Systems. The work was led by Alexandre Ferreira da Silva, researcher at the UMinho School of Engineering, who highlighted the importance of the project for strengthening national expertise in the aerospace sector.

“This is a special moment for the university and for the country. Prometheus-1 will allow us to bring space into the classroom, promoting hands-on learning in areas such as electronics and aerospace engineering. It has been an incredible journey, and the future promises to be even more exciting”, said the person in charge.

Video report: RTP