The satellite, developed in cooperation with the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology, serves as a scientific laboratory in space.
The Egyptian Space Agency has confirmed the successful launch and orbital insertion of its SPNEX satellite, marking another milestone in the countrys expanding space programme. The satellite was carried into orbit aboard Chinas Lijian-1 Y11 rocket, manufactured by CAS Space, which deployed nine payloads during the mission, all of which reached their designated orbits.
According to the agency, SPNEX has already begun transmitting its first signals, signalling the start of its operational phase. The satellite represents Egypts second domestically developed spacecraft in recent years, reflecting the countrys growing focus on building self-reliance in satellite design, manufacturing and operations.
SPNEX forms part of Egypts nano-satellite development programme and showcases the ability of Egyptian engineers to deliver end-to-end space systems, covering design, manufacturing, assembly, integration, testing and in-orbit operations. The project was developed in collaboration with the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology, which also provided funding, and made use of Egypts Assembly, Integration and Testing facilities.
Designed as a scientific laboratory in orbit, the satellite is dedicated to studying plasma characteristics in the ionosphere. It supports research into solar and geomagnetic storms, contributes to the development of more accurate ionospheric models and plays a role in climate-related studies.
The spacecraft carries two main instrument packages: plasma diagnostics equipment for ionospheric analysis and an Earth observation payload capable of 10-metre panchromatic imaging. Over its planned two-year mission, SPNEX will focus on monitoring ionospheric variations and the effects of climate change, areas where Egypt aims to strengthen its own data-gathering capabilities rather than relying on external sources. Although the launch had originally been scheduled for the first half of 2025, it was brought forward following the resolution of technical issues.
The launch of SPNEX brings Egypts total number of satellites to 15, while it represents the 66th satellite launched by an African nation. Despite growing activity across the continent, space efforts remain concentrated in a handful of countries, with Egypt, South Africa, Algeria and Nigeria accounting for the majority of African satellites currently in orbit.
