Sener joins ESA’s EnVision mission to study Venus’ formation

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13/11/2025

The industrial engineering and technology group Sener will take part in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) EnVision mission, working from its facilities in Spain and Poland.

EnVision will be the first mission to deliver a complete view of Venus, from its inner core to its upper atmosphere, to understand how and why Venus and Earth evolved so differently. The mission will study the planet’s atmosphere, surface, and interior, and how these layers interact. This is ESA’s second mission to Venus. The launch is scheduled for November 2031. The journey will include a 15-month cruise followed by 11 months of aerobraking to reach the final science orbit. The science operations phase will last for four Earth years.

Sener is responsible for the design and development of the power supplies of the VenSpec instrument, as well as a 16-meter-long dipole antenna formed by two booms for the Subsurface Radar Sounder (SRS), developed by Thales Alenia. The SRS is a nadir-looking radar sounder that transmits low-frequency radio waves with the unique ability to penetrate beneath the surface. These waves interact with subsurface structures and dielectric discontinuities, producing reflections that are used to create images (radargrams) and map hidden geological features. The instrument’s design relies on physical and electromagnetic modeling of surface and subsurface targets.

Venus exhibits unusual geological formations such as pancake domes, complex ridged terrain (tesserae), and exceptionally long lava channels, identified by previous missions. Understanding how these features formed will provide key insights into the planet’s geodynamic evolution. The SRS will help characterize vertical structures and properties of these formations, detect buried craters and strata, and define boundaries between geological units.

The boom developed by Sener will be critical for the SRS to achieve its objectives and ensure mission success. Sener brings extensive experience in this field, having designed, manufactured, verified, and integrated the magnetometer boom for ESA’s JUICE mission, launched in 2023 to study Jupiter and its icy moons.

The satellite includes the VenSpec instrument, which is a set of three image spectrometers: VenSpec-M (infrared image generator), VenSpec-H (infrared spectrometer), VenSpec-U (ultraviolet spectrometer). Sener develops, in collaboration with the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía, the Central Control Unit Power Supplies Units (CCU-PSU) of the instrument that communicates with the satellite and the power supplies of the H and U channels, with strict requirements for ripple, noise and voltage precision in the outputs.

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Proba-3: Formation flying for solar corona observation led by Sener

Precise technology for solar corona observation

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Proba-3: Formation flying for solar corona observation led by Sener

About Proba-3: What is it?

Proba-3 is the first ESA space mission to use precise formation flying technology. It demonstrates the maturity of this technology and, at the same time, uses it to perform scientific observations of the solar corona under conditions never achieved before.

Proba-3 space mission objectives

Precise formation flying technology

The two Proba-3 satellites are positioned with millimetre-level relative accuracy and a pointing precision of thousandths of a degree.

Observation of the solar corona

The two Proba-3 satellites create artificial solar eclipses to obtain unprecedented data from the inner corona.

Autonomous operation

Formation flying is autonomously controlled onboard the satellites without direct commanding from Earth.

Sener has developed the mission as Prime Contractor for ESA.

Pioneers in technology and scientific research

The first high-precision formation flying mission

Proba-3 is an ESA space mission that uses precise formation flying technology for the first time. Its objective is to demonstrate the maturity of this technology and, at the same time, use it to perform scientific observations of the solar corona under conditions never achieved before. Precise formation flying technology enables the two Proba-3 satellites to be positioned with millimetre-level relative accuracy and a pointing precision of thousandths of a degree.

The mission commissioning phase was completed in July 2025, at which point ESA declared the mission objectives achieved.

Formation flying demonstrates the capabilities of this technology for use in scientific missions through the execution of specific in-orbit manoeuvres, such as controlled approach and separation between satellites, or reorientation of the formation as a virtual rigid body.

These operations include:

Station-keeping at different relative distances (from 25 m to 250 m).
Approach and separation in precise formation without losing millimetre-level accuracy.
Reorientation of the formation as a virtual rigid body away from the Sun.
Creation of the first artificial solar eclipse in orbit.

The success of Proba-3 demonstrates that small, independent, and easy-to-launch platforms can replace bulky structures, such as telescopes, and operate as a single entity achieving high performance.

In 2025, several approach operations were carried out, including one at a distance of 30 m in November 2025.

Coronagraph Satellite observed from the cameras of the Occulter Satellite during an operational orbit. ©ESA

Proba-3 and the scientific study of the Sun

Proba-3 also performs scientific observations by capturing images of the solar corona through a coronagraph instrument located on one of the spacecraft. Formation flying technology involves placing one of the two Proba-3 satellites in front of the instrument’s lens, thereby blocking the solar disk and creating an artificial eclipse in flight.

Achieving this in space, at a distance of 150 m and with observation periods of up to 6 continuous hours per orbit, delivers unprecedented performance in coronagraphy. As a result, the Proba-3 mission provides highly valuable results to the scientific community.

In 2025, Proba-3 accumulated data equivalent to 4,000 solar eclipses. These data, together with measurements from other solar observation satellites such as Proba-2 and SOHO, enable a better understanding of how coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are generated and propagated from the centre of the Sun to the outer corona.

Another distinctive feature of this mission is that most operations are carried out fully autonomously, without ground intervention to actively control the formation, while always being monitored by a ground team. The Proba-3 satellites coordinate their operations based on a predefined timeline specifying their activities.

They are also capable of making autonomous decisions in case of anomalies, breaking the formation and placing the satellites into a safe configuration until the issues can be further investigated from the ground.

Proba-3 satellites:

Coronagraph Spacecraft and Occulter Spacecraft

The Proba-3 space segment consists of two satellites. The first, called the Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC), carries the main instrument (coronagraph). The second, called the Occulter Spacecraft (OSC), carries an occulting disk that blocks the solar disk as seen from the other satellite.

The OSC, as the leading element of the formation flying system, also integrates the main metrology units used for formation flying, including a laser system and a set of cameras forming part of a vision-based system.

The two satellites are launched in a stacked configuration, with the OSC mounted on top of the CSC and the CSC’s solar array folded.

Key mission characteristics

Orbit	High Elliptical Orbit (HEO) 600 km Perigee / 60,000 km Apogee Period 19,6 h Periods of Long Eclipse (3.5 h)
Launcher	PSLV-XL (ISRO) Launch in December 2024
Ground segment	Antennas of INTA (Spain) and SSC (Chile, Australia) Redu (Belgium) control center
Lifetime	2 years
Satellites	Laser-based system (FLLS) Vision-Based System (VBS) Inter-Satellite Link (ISL) Relative GPS
Payloads & Experiments	ASPIICS (Coronagraph) DARA (Radiometer) 3DEES (Spectrometer) MIGAS rendezvous experiment
Operations	Autonomous operations of up to 7 days Maximum command gap of 20 h

Proba-3 space mission led by Sener

The Sener technology group has led, as Prime Contractor, the development of the Proba-3 mission system, including both the space and ground segments, in close collaboration with an industrial team comprising Airbus Defence and Space (Spain), GMV, Redwire, and Spacebel, within a broader consortium of more than 29 companies from 17 countries.

Sener also led the industrial team responsible for satellite operations during the in-orbit commissioning phase, completed in July 2025. Since then, the satellites have been operated under ESA responsibility.

Proba-3 is part of ESA’s General Support Technology Programme (GSTP), and Spain’s participation has been made possible through the support of CDTI (Centre for the Development of Technology and Innovation).

Sener’s responsibility in the design and manufacturing of critical satellite units

Sener has also been responsible for the design, manufacturing, and testing of several satellite units:

High Stability Optical Bench (OBA) assemblies for both spacecraft. These benches ensure highly stable and controlled pointing of optical instruments and payloads during observation periods.
The mechanism for deploying the Coronagraph Spacecraft’s solar array after launch.
The S-band Low Gain Antenna used by the Proba-3 Telemetry, Tracking and Command subsystem.

FAQs

Who launched Proba-3?

The two Proba-3 spacecraft were launched together by the PSLV-XL launcher of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which provides the required performance at a reasonable cost to place the combined 550-kilogram pair into their highly elliptical orbit. This orbit involves reaching an altitude of 60,000 kilometres from Earth before descending to just 600 kilometres.

Sener, as Prime Contractor, developed the satellite platforms and the formation flying system for this pioneering space mission.

When was the Proba-3 space mission launched?

ESA’s Proba-3 space mission was launched on 5 December 2024.

Why is the Proba-3 mission a technological and scientific breakthrough?

The Proba-3 mission represents a major milestone in space exploration thanks to its innovative formation flying approach and its miniaturised satellites.

This technology enables the creation of a modular system in orbit capable of operating with the precision of a single structure, thanks to its millimetre-level accuracy. In this way, formation flying makes it possible to build complex structures, such as telescopes, which would otherwise be very costly to launch into space due to the large dimensions required during operation.

This technology opens new frontiers in astronomy, geodesy, and Earth observation. In particular, Proba-3’s ability to generate its own solar eclipses allows for very long-duration observations of the solar corona, achieving unprecedented precision.

News

Developed under Sener’s leadership, ESA’s Proba-3 mission successfully launched from India

The industry and authorities present in Spain the Proba-3 mission of the European Space Agency, led by Sener

The Proba-3 program takes an important step in the integration of its two satellites

ESA’s Proba-3 mission, ready to launch at the end of the year

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Retractable pitch system: Hypogea

Multi-functional Stadiums and Arenas

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Sener/SpainPage 2

Retractable pitch system: Hypogea

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Retractable pitch system: Hypogea

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A solution to maximize the use of the space taken up by the field of play in stadiums

Hypogea is an innovative retractable pitch system that can automatically, quickly and safely remove and protect the natural grass in a stadium by means of a set of mechanisms that reposition and move the trays that divide the playing field. It also features advanced grass maintenance systems (including irrigation, ventilation, heating, drainage, and more).

This solution maximizes the amount of space available in sports stadiums for multiple events and non-sports uses, such as concerts, conventions and shows.

Advantages

Fully automated system

Adaptable to any existing or future stadium

It can be adapted to the geometry and operating requirements of any stadium in the world

It does not impact the urban environment surrounding the stadium

High-quality natural grass

Operation

Fully automated and autonomous transport carts

They are able to transport each of the trays laterally and lengthwise from the centre of the stadium to an underground growth chamber located under the perimeter of the playing field itself.

Lifting scales

Allows the trays to move vertically from their “match” mode position to their “event” mode position (with the trays stored in the chamber).

Underground growth chamber

(with independent entrances from the outside of the stadium) has all the systems and facilities needed to maintain the grass for extended periods of time, including; HVAC system, gas treatment system (CO2), LED lighting for growth, UV treatment, precision irrigation and fertilization, agronomic tracking using thermographic and multispectral cameras, etc.

The lower chamber can also be designed for alternative uses other than lawn maintenance, such as a car park on match days or a multi-functional space for alternative events, expanding the operating possibilities of the stadium.

Characteristics

Completely multidisciplinary project:

covers almost all the engineering disciplines.

Only system that can be integrated into any stadium in the world without affecting its main structure.

It does not affect the stands or the stadium environment.

Guarantees the best agronomic conditions for the grass

by incorporating precision mechanisms that allow the playing field to be moved and stored.

First system to integrate all the agronomic maintenance systems and facilities

that the market has to offer.

Use case

Real Madrid CF

One of the variants of the Hypogea system developed and patented by Sener was designed and built at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium of Real Madrid CF.

Sener proposed to Real Madrid the idea of including a system capable of removing the natural grass pitch from its central position at the stadium to allow hosting non-football events.

The stadium of the future

Discover how the Hypogea system works.

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Jorge Vizcaya

Sener Architect

“In many ways, stadiums have become modern shrines. However, the sports function, for which most of them were designed, precludes any use or operation for alternative activities.”

“At Sener, we have always believed that stadiums must be designed in such a way that their function transcends a mere sporting use.”

Altamira Data Center

Quark (Sener Group) performs the technical support of a 500 MW sustainable data campus in Cantabria, the largest tech investment in the region’s history.

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Altamira Data Center

500 MW of Innovation and Impact

A milestone in European digital infrastructure

The Altamira Project, led by XDC Properties, represents the largest investment in the history of Cantabria: a 3.6 billion euro initiative that will create a new technological campus housing a 500 MW data center. The project will boost the region’s economy, technological positioning, and employment landscape.

This data campus will be made up of twelve adjacent data center modules of 40 MW each and feature 75,000 sqm of photovoltaic panels, ensuring a commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. The modular development will be phased to match client growth, ensuring flexibility and ease of integration.

Construction is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025, with operations starting in 2032. Once fully operational, the data center will directly and indirectly employ nearly 1,500 people, consolidating Cantabria’s position as a technological hub in Southern Europe.

Sener’s Role in the Project

Quark: Driving the engineering of Altamira data hub

Quark, part of the engineering and technology group Sener, performs the technical support of Altamira Project. As the technical advisor to XDC Properties, Quark is contributing its expertise in large-scale infrastructure and sustainable energy integration.

According to Quark’s CEO, Ricardo Abad, the modular approach and renewable infrastructure—such as the photovoltaic panel surface—are key pillars of the design strategy, enabling the project to adapt to evolving technological demands while reducing carbon emissions. Quark’s involvement ensures a robust and forward-thinking engineering foundation for the Stoneshield data center.

Characteristics

500 MW capacity data center

One of Europe’s most powerful data centers, developed to meet the increasing global demand for cloud services, AI, IoT and big data.

12 modular buildings

The campus will be composed of twelve 40 MW modules, allowing for phased development and scalability according to client needs.

Renewable energy integration

A photovoltaic installation of 75,000 sqm will supply part of the campus’s power demand, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Strategic geographic location

Located near the ANJANA submarine cable landing station, the site will benefit from unmatched connectivity with North America.

Construction to begin in 2025

Development is scheduled to start in Q1 2025, with operations planned for 2032.

Project Advantajes

Economic development catalyst

With over €3.6 billion invested, the project will significantly boost Cantabria’s GDP and attract global digital business.

Job creation and social impact

More than 1,500 direct jobs during construction and 1,450 during operations will enhance local employment.

Environmental sustainability

The data center will reduce CO2 emissions through renewable energy use and advanced efficiency systems.

Figures

€3.6 billion

Largest investment ever received in Cantabria for a single infrastructure project.

1,500+ jobs

Direct jobs created during the construction phase of the Altamira data center campus.

500 MW

Total capacity of the data center, placing it among the largest in Europe.

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Let us show you how we can help with your projects.

2.5 MW electrolyzer for Petronor’s refinery in Muskiz (Spain)

Decarbonization of strategic sectors

Case of success

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2.5 MW electrolyzer for Petronor’s refinery in Muskiz (Spain)

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2.5 MW electrolyzer for Petronor’s refinery in Muskiz (Spain)

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We have completed the EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) contract for a 2.5 MW electrolysis plant for Repsol. The electrolyser, located within the Petronor industrial complex in Muskiz (Spain) and aimed at supplying the Basque Hydrogen Corridor, enabled the production of the Basque Country’s first renewable hydrogen at the end of 2023.

In this way, the electrolyser serves the refinery itself and various entities within the Left Bank Technology Park, located in the municipality of Abanto Zierbena.

The green energy used by the electrolyser to generate renewable hydrogen is provided by Repsol, while the pipelines carrying the renewable hydrogen from the refinery to the Technology Park were built by Nortegas.

Additionally, this renewable hydrogen will also be supplied to the initial buses and light vehicles of the logistics mobility platform at the Technology Park, which will include the Basque Country’s first hydrogen refuelling station.

This project is part of the Basque Hydrogen Corridor, BH2C, and contributes to the shift in the energy and economic model, advancing the decarbonisation of strategic sectors such as energy, mobility, industry, and services.

Characteristics

2,5 MWe Alkaline Electrolyser

Generation of 340 tonnes/year of H2 at 30 barg

H2 quality for mobility

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Sener strengthens Spain’s technological sovereignty in secure communications with its participation in SpainSat NG II

Space

Space for security

Sener strengthens Spain’s technological sovereignty in secure communications with its participation in SpainSat NG II

Sener/SpainPage 2

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21/10/2025

The second satellite of the SpainSat NG programme will be launched on 22 October, completing Europe’s most advanced secure communications constellation.

The engineering and technology group Sener has been involved in SpainSat NG II, the second satellite in Hisdesat’s secure communications programme, scheduled for launch on 22 October from Cape Canaveral, United States. This milestone will complete the SpainSat NG constellation, following the successful launch and commissioning of its twin satellite, SpainSat NG I, last January, on which Sener also worked.

SpainSat NG II, identical to its predecessor (already successfully operating in orbit), will provide secure and reliable communications for the Spanish Armed Forces, strengthening the nation’s technological and strategic capability in space. The satellite will incorporate advanced technologies to protect against jamming and spoofing attempts and will be shielded against high-altitude nuclear events.

Sener was responsible for the design, manufacture and testing of critical components for SpainSat NG II, replicating its successful contribution to the first satellite in the series:

Sener designed, manufactured and tested over one hundred complete chains for both the active transmit antenna and the X-band receive antenna. Each chain integrates a radiating front end with a DSSPA (dual solid-state power amplifier) for the transmit antenna or a DLNA (dual low-noise amplifier) for the receive antenna.
In addition, Sener supplied six mechanically steerable reflector systems for the Ka-band communications payload, mounted on a deployable panel, with three types of antenna and an angular movement system for each reflector. These reflectors are fed by radiating chains, also provided by Sener, including a horn, polariser and waveguides for signal distribution.
Furthermore, for each satellite, Sener delivered the telemetry and telecommand antennas: a pair of S-band hemispherical antennas and a global coverage antenna with dual polarisations and integrated transmit-and-receive functionality.
Finally, Sener played an active role in the satellite’s UHF payload, developing the three-channel OMUX, which filters and combines the outputs of the corresponding amplifiers before feeding the satellite’s UHF antenna. Handling high power at this frequency for space applications made the design of this unit a first-class challenge.

Once in orbit, SpainSat NG II will operate alongside SpainSat NG I to provide extended coverage spanning from the United States and South America to the Middle East, including Africa, Europe and reaching as far as Singapore. With an operational lifetime of 15 years, both satellites will ensure the continuity of Spain’s military and governmental communications.

“With the imminent launch of SpainSat NG II, we complete our involvement in one of the most advanced satellite programmes in the world”, said Diego Rodríguez, Space and Science Director at Sener.“The operational success of SpainSat NG I since its launch in January validates our technological solutions and reinforces our commitment to Spain’s technological sovereignty in space”.

Proven track record in the space sector

Sener has a well-established history in satellite communications, having supplied antennas and radiofrequency equipment—both active and passive—to leading satellite manufacturers and space agencies for applications in navigation, telecommunications, exploration and Earth observation. The company has delivered over 10,000 units of equipment and subsystems, which have flown on 1,400 satellites in LEO, GEO and MEO orbits, as well as on launchers.

Sener’s involvement in the SpainSat NG programme further consolidates its role as a strategic partner in defence space programmes and demonstrates the capability of Spanish industry to develop cutting-edge space technology.

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New hospital in Málaga

A leading health centre for acute care, highly specialised and offering sophisticated healthcare technologies.

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New hospital in Málaga

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New hospital in Málaga

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The new hospital in Malaga is conceived as the new reference health centre for acute patients with a high specialization and sophisticated health technologies, oriented towards the quality, excellence and effectiveness of all its services.

An innovative, bioclimatic, efficient and highly technological building, equipped with the necessary technologies to offer patients maximum comfort.

Characteristics

Flexibility to adapt to the continuous changes that occur in medical technology

and to provide new medical treatments that are much more personalized than today’s.

Design conceived to humanise spaces.

Corrective measures for noise pollution and its impact.

Completely digitized

through robustly implemented Information and Communication Technologies.

The building has been designed to respond to a new medicine, much more personalized than the current one, increasing the degree of complexity in the treatment of admitted patients. A new medicine with an increasingly strong presence of research, in the constant search for treatments that can be applied to patients. In short, translational medicine, which will enable increasingly personalized treatments.

In addition, it will be accompanied by a total digitalization of the hospital, with a robust development of Information and Communication Technologies, ffor which the hospital must be perfectly trained to respond to these requirements and be able to obtain all the advantages that the use of ICT can facilitate.

From Sener, we develop all the facilities and structures of the hospital, as well as the design of the heliport.

The hospital in figures

Investment

An estimated investment of 380 million euros.

Surface

Total built area of 270,300 square meters; 197,600 of them dedicated to the hospital building proper and 73,600 to the parking lot and loading and unloading dock.

Project construction time

The approximate project construction time is 60 months.

FACILITY DETAILS

Hospitalization:	28 units of hospitalization. 837 double rooms for individual use.
Emergencies:	Emergencies and Biological Risk Urgency: 9,000 m2.
Diagnostic and imaging area:	Radiodiagnosis 4,000 m2. 3 Magnetic Resonances. 3 Hemodynamics. 11 Toc. 1 remote control. 8 Conventional. 3 Accelerators.
Surgical Area:	42 operating rooms. 4 hybrid operating rooms. 2 hemodynamic rooms. 48 positions for major outpatient surgery.
Teaching and research area.
2,000 parking spaces.
ICU:	4 units. 60 boxes.
External consultations:	198 queries. 31 special examination rooms.
Heliport.

The Joint Venture

Sener, AIDHOS, Estudio LAMELA y ARCS

The Regional Government of Andalusia has awarded the contract to plan and construct a new hospital in Malaga to the Malaka temporary joint venture (TJV), consisting of the architecture studio AIDHOS Arquitec, specializing in hospital architecture, Estudio Lamela, and the Sener and ARCS Estudios engineering firms. The Malaka TJV was also responsible for the draft version of the new hospital in Malaga.

Sener opens its 6th Innovation Forum in Barcelona with the participation of Jaume Baró, Secretary of Business and Competitiveness of the Generalitat of Catalunya

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13/10/2025

The engineering and technology group Sener inaugurated today, at Casa Milà in Barcelona, the sixth edition of its Innovation Forum, a benchmark event in Spain for analysing the latest technological trends and their applications in strategic sectors.

The opening ceremony was attended by Jaume Baró, Secretary of Business and Competitiveness of the Generalitat of Catalonia, who emphasized that “innovation is key to developing a competitive economy and tackling our major social challenges. Catalonia is very well positioned, with an ecosystem that brings together entrepreneurship, technology, research centres, prestigious universities, local talent and the ability to attract international talent, as well as a growing network of emerging companies that make us a genuine technology hub in southern Europe. In this regard, institutions such as ACCIÓ are essential to continue driving innovation.”

Sr. Jaume Baró Torres Fórum Innovación Sener_2

This year’s Forum brings together, over two days, executives, researchers, and experts from more than 20 leading companies, technological centres, and institutions in their respective fields, including Airbus Defence and Space, CSIC, ADIF, Alstom, Universitat Politècnica de València, Esade, Kapsch TrafficCom, and the European Space Agency, among others.

The program combines inspiring keynote speeches, panel discussions, and demonstrations in the TechShow area, aiming to reflect on major technological challenges in connected and sustainable mobility, defence and drones, decarbonisation and CO₂ management, artificial intelligence, OT cybersecurity, and data centres, among other areas.

During the opening, Sener’s President, Andrés Sendagorta, highlighted that “innovation has been one of Sener’s fundamental pillars since its founding almost 70 years ago. Our founders understood that technological innovation would be our strength and our distinctive value, and that spirit remains alive today thanks to the exceptional team of over 4,000 professionals who make up the company, covering more than 100 technical disciplines. In Barcelona, we have one of our largest production centres, where more than 300 professionals are involved in major international projects. We are convinced that it is essential to innovate in collaboration with the entire ecosystem we are part of: technology centres, start-ups, universities, partners, clients and, of course, with the support of public institutions, which is indispensable to sustain this innovative ecosystem.”

Investment in R&D and Cutting-Edge Projects

Sener maintains a strong commitment to R&D and investment in production capabilities as a driver of growth. Over the past three years, the group has acquired the Australian consultancy Tactix (transport infrastructure), the engineering firm Quark (data centres), and the company SCR (unmanned systems). In parallel, it is expanding its facilities in Zamudio (Vizcaya), Tres Cantos (Madrid), and Barcelona, with industrial projects involving an investment of 35 million euros in new plants and clean rooms for its space and defense businesses.

Similarly, in 2024, the company further strengthened its businesses with significant milestones. In the space sector, Sener was the prime contractor for the European Space Agency’s Proba-3 mission, which marked the first formation flight of two satellites in orbit.

In the energy sector, Sener has contributed to key infrastructure projects, such as the CO2next carbon dioxide storage terminal in Rotterdam and pioneering projects in Germany, including the adaptation of combined-cycle power plants to hydrogen and the country’s first onshore liquefied natural gas storage and regasification plant.

Additionally, the company recently launched Epigea, an automated solution that optimises operations in football stadiums. This mobile and retractable cover ensures the quality of the turf while enabling non-sporting events. This enables stadiums to be used 365 days a year, creating new revenue streams and enhancing the value of the real estate asset.

Through Quark, Sener has designed data centres for the IT Management of Social Security (GISS) and major international operators such as Damac, Equinix, and Prime Data Centers.

Recognition of Technical Excellence

The Innovation Forum also serves as the stage for Sener to recognise the excellence of its professionals. During the event, awards are presented to the technological leader with significant impact and to the project that pushes the boundaries of technology. It is also the occasion for the appointment of its Chief Technical Engineers (CTE). This biennial recognition honours company experts in fields such as geotechnics, acoustics, or electronics, selected by an internal committee based on their knowledge, career, and academic and professional contributions.

Sener, with over 4,000 professionals worldwide and a strong presence in Barcelona (where a team of more than 400 STEM specialists works), develops cutting-edge projects in areas such as space, energy, mobility, data centres, and digital solutions.

The Innovation Forum, which will continue until tomorrow, 14 October, will also present the Forum Awards, geared towards highlighting the most significant contributions to the innovation ecosystem.

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SpainSat NG-I: Spain’s next generation secure communications satellite

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SpainSat NG-I: Spain’s next generation secure communications satellite

SpainSat NG-I is the first of two state-of-the-art communication satellites developed as part of the SpainSat NG programme, led by Hisdesat, to provide secure and reliable communications for the Spanish armed forces and emergency response teams.

With a useful life of 15 years and global coverage (from the United States, South America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and as far as Singapore), these satellites incorporate advanced technologies to protect against interference and spoofing attempts and will be reinforced and protected against nuclear phenomena at high altitude. They are the most advanced satellites of their kind in Europe.

One of the most innovative aspects of the SpainSat NG satellite is its ability to operate in three frequency bands: X, Ka Mil and UHF. A feature that gives it unprecedented versatility and robustness, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of applications and operating conditions.

Sener contribution to SpainSat NG

Active X-band transmitting and receiving antennas

At Sener, we have designed, manufactured and carried out the tests of several of the elements that make up the satellite’s active X-band transmitting and receiving antennas.

These antennas integrate, among others, 120 DSSPA (dual solid-state power amplifiers) and 120 DLNA (dual low-noise amplifiers), both in X-band.

Ka-band communications system

We have supplied 6 sets of steerable reflectors, Mechanical Reflector Assembly (MRA) for the Ka-band communications system, installed on a deployable panel, with three types of antennas and with an angular movement range of the antenna of +/- 5º. These reflectors are fed by several feeders, including the horn, polarizer and guide routing, which have also been supplied by Sener.

S-band antennas and global X-band TCR antenna

For each satellite, at Sener we have delivered a pair of S-band antennas (circular polarizations on the right and left) and a global X-band TCR antenna with both polarizations (with transmission and reception functions integrated in the same antenna).

UHF antenna

Finally, we have actively participated in the satellite’s ultra-high frequency or UHF antenna, developing the three-channel OMUX, which filters and groups the outputs of the corresponding amplifiers before attacking the satellite’s UHF antenna. The handling of high powers at low frequencies for space applications made the design of this equipment a first-class challenge.

Main characteristics of SpainSat NG

Secure Communications:

Incorporates advanced jamming and spoofing protection technologies, ensuring secure communications, especially for military and government applications.

Cutting-edge technology:

The satellite incorporates the most advanced satellite communications technology, reinforcing Spain’s technological and strategic capacity in space, but also being a technological benchmark in Europe.

Flexibility:

The satellite has a flexible payload that allows the beams to be dynamically reconfigured, adapting to the changing needs of users.

Military and emergency response applications:

In addition to military applications, the satellite can also be used for commercial communications, disaster management and search and rescue services.

Programme mission

Ensure effective command and control in operations of the Armed Forces

beyond the line of sight in two thirds of the Earth.

Guarantee communication capacity in theatres of operations lacking infrastructure.

Develop more satellite communications in motion,

greater capacity and security.

Unlocking the potential of the battlespace-netcentric warfare and operations core network.

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FAQ about SpainSat NG

When were SpainSat NG satellites launched?

SpainSat NG-I was launched from Cape Canaveral (Florida) on a Falcon 9 rocket at 20.34 local time (02.34 Spanish time).

Its twin satellite, SpainSat NG II, is expected to be launched into orbit in October 2025.

Who leads SpainSat NG?

The SpainSat programme is an example of public-private collaboration, as it is supported by the Ministry of Defence and other governmental institutions.

The programme is led by the Spanish company Hisdesat, which is responsible for monitoring the project and will carry out the operation and commercial exploitation of the programme during its useful life, as well as having been responsible for the flight segment and the ground segment for the control and operation of the satellites.

Who are the main contractors for SpainSat NG?

The programme is led by a consortium formed by Airbus DS España (as prime contractor) and the French and Spanish subsidiaries of Thales Alenia Space.

What has been Spain’s participation in the SpainSat NG I satellite?

More than 40 % of the satellites have been developed by Spanish companies that are members of Tedae, the Spanish Association of Defence, Security, Aeronautics and Space Technology Companies. These include: Hisdesat, Aibus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space, Airbus Crisa, Alter Technology, Arquimea, GMV, HV Sistemas, Indra, Tecnobit-Grupo Oesía, Sener and Inventia.

Ten Basque companies join forces to address the saturation of electricity grids

Energy

Ten Basque companies join forces to address the saturation of electricity grids

Sener/SpainPage 2

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08/10/2025

The DEMELEK project researches new prospective models and advanced tools to predict future electricity demand, optimise grid capacity management and integrate flexibility mechanisms in high‑consumption sectors. The consortium, led by i‑DE Redes Eléctricas Inteligentes, includes the participation of Ayesa Ibermática, Sener, Ariadna, Veltium Smart Chargers, Iberdrola Clientes, Saltoki, Vidrala, Fundiciones Fumbarri and Ebielec, with the support of the Basque Government through the Hazitek programme.

Electricity grids: a key element in the decarbonisation of the economy

The electrification process is advancing rapidly in key sectors such as industry and transport, driven by European decarbonisation targets. The deployment of new infrastructure, including data processing centres and electric mobility charging systems, together with the incorporation of electrical technologies into production processes, points to a very significant increase in electricity demand over the coming decade.

In this context, the updated draft of Spain’s National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC), published in June 2023, reinforces the country’s commitments to emissions reduction and the energy transition. Among the objectives set out in this document, a key target is to increase the electrification of the economy to 34% by 2030, consolidating it as one of the main drivers of decarbonisation and energy independence.

The Basque Government has also taken decisive steps with the approval of the Basque Country Energy Transition and Climate Change Act, which seeks to leverage the opportunities of the transition process to strengthen industrial competitiveness. The law establishes technological innovation and decarbonisation as strategic pillars for transforming the productive model.

However, this energy transformation entails structural challenges. The Basque electricity grid is operating at the limit of its capacity and requires urgent reinforcement to meet the new needs arising from the electrification of industry and mobility. This situation is highlighted in the Basque Government’s proposal to Red Eléctrica for strengthening the transmission grid in the Basque Country, which underlines the loss of competitiveness that would result from failing to make the necessary investments, putting up to 75,000 jobs at risk.

DEMELEK: a collaborative industrial research project

Against this backdrop, the DEMELEK project, “Solutions based on prospective models and new flexibility services for demand electrification”, aims to anticipate the growth of electrification through the development of georeferenced prospective models that enable accurate estimation of the evolution of electricity demand in key sectors for the Basque Country. Based on these models, grid scenarios will be generated that take into account different levels of electrification and their likelihood of occurrence, thus providing a detailed and dynamic view of the future electricity system. To this end, work will focus on modelling and quantifying the uncertainties associated with demand and infrastructure planning, integrating them into advanced decision‑support tools that optimise the management of available grid capacity by operators.

In parallel, DEMELEK will address the development of new flexibility strategies, from both the grid operation and demand perspectives. The project will incorporate flexibility into capacity management optimisation processes, analysing how consumption in different sectors — with particular emphasis on industry, electric mobility and data processing centres — can adapt to the conditions of the electricity system. In addition, new technological capabilities will be promoted to increase demand flexibility, enabling smarter interaction between consumers and system operators.

Ultimately, the DEMELEK project will enable electricity grid operation to adapt and respond efficiently to connection needs arising from the evolution of electrification demand, thereby mitigating its potential impact on grid saturation and strengthening resilience in the face of the challenges of the energy transition.

The project is coordinated by i‑DE Redes Eléctricas Inteligentes, which is responsible for developing the georeferenced model that will enable the generation of future demand scenarios for the target economic sectors. Ayesa Ibermática will develop the optimisation model for deploying flexibility according to grid constraints. Sener will be responsible for characterising the behaviour of electrification technologies and designing new flexibility models that highlight their value in industrial processes, with the support of Fundiciones Fumbarri and Vidrala as end industrial users. Veltium Smart Chargers, together with Iberdrola Clientes, will address the design of flexibility schemes for electric vehicle charging. Saltoki and Ebielec will study advanced strategies to optimise flexibility management in data processing centres. Finally, Ariadna will develop a tool to apply different future electricity demand scenarios and the grid capacity management optimisation strategies designed in the project to a representative case study in the Basque Country.

Given its highly technological and innovative nature, DEMELEK also benefits from the contribution of agents from the Basque Network for Science, Technology and Innovation (RVCTI). Tecnalia supports the project’s design and strategic vision, while the Ibermática Institute of Innovation (i3B) and Ikerlan provide research support to the companies involved. The BASQUENERGY Cluster supports the consortium by energising communication and dissemination activities.

The DEMELEK partners, whose work will span approximately three years, held their kick‑off meeting on 8 October at Iberdrola’s Global Smart Grids Innovation Hub in Bilbao. The project is co‑funded by the Basque Government’s Department of Industry, Energy Transition and Sustainability (HAZITEK Programme) and by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund 2021–2027 (ERDF).

Sener joins ESA’s EnVision mission to study Venus’ formation

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Science & Earth observation

Proba-3: Formation flying for solar corona observation led by Sener

Precise technology for solar corona observation

Proba-3: Formation flying for solar corona observation led by Sener

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Retractable pitch system: Hypogea

Multi-functional Stadiums and Arenas

Retractable pitch system: Hypogea

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Retractable pitch system: Hypogea

A solution to maximize the use of the space taken up by the field of play in stadiums

Advantages

Fully automated system

Adaptable to any existing or future stadium

It can be adapted to the geometry and operating requirements of any stadium in the world

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Fully automated and autonomous transport carts

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Jorge Vizcaya

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Altamira Data Center

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Altamira Data Center

500 MW of Innovation and Impact

A milestone in European digital infrastructure

Sener’s Role in the Project

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500 MW capacity data center

12 modular buildings

Renewable energy integration

Strategic geographic location

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Economic development catalyst

Job creation and social impact

Environmental sustainability

Figures

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1,500+ jobs

500 MW

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