ESA InCubed IVSEN project kicked off
November 10, 2025
The IVSEN project (Integrated VHR Satellite for Energy Networks) recently kicked-off under the InCubed Programme managed by ESA Φ-lab Division, to deliver a next-gen EO microsatellite, optimized for scalability, assembly, weight and cost, providing timely, affordable VHR data, an advanced satellite-based monitoring solution tailored for utilities and energy infrastructure operators.
Developed by a consortium led by SATLANTIS, together with Alén Space, DHV Technology, and GeoAI, IVSEN is building a Very High Resolution (VHR) Earth Observation satellite optimized for energy network monitoring.
The payload is a very high-resolution telescope aiming to achieve less than 0.5 m resolution, integrated into a compact, lightweight platform compatible with small satellite launches, reflecting a joint commitment to innovative and commercially viable EO solutions.
IVSEN builds around SATLANTIS’ VHR payload, the largest optical instrument in its portfolio, leveraging heritage from iSIM technology already in orbit. Designed as a “flying camera”, the system combines a high-performance satellite with turnkey services for infrastructure monitoring, offering both ownership of a standalone satellite or a full monitoring service with analytics and periodic reporting, tailored to energy-sector needs.
“IVSEN represents a strategic milestone for SATLANTIS, as it strengthens our capabilities in very high-resolution Earth observation, a core technology for the company’s future. We are grateful to the ESA InCubed programme for their trust and support in driving this project forward, and for enabling us to deliver an agile solution that will help energy operators and other users monitor and safeguard their critical infrastructures,” said Juan Tomas Hernani, CEO of SATLANTIS.
State-of-the-art microsatellite platform
On the platform side, Alén Space is leading the development of a state-of-the-art satellite structure, building on its proven heritage while introducing significant innovations across multiple subsystems, most notably the design of a highly reliable on-board computer (OBC) to ensure greater efficiency and reliability throughout the mission.
“At Alén Space, innovation is at the core of everything we do. We have built a strong track record in space engineering, both with subsystems and satellites already in orbit. IVSEN marks a natural evolution for Alén Space, showcasing our commitment to lead the development and provision of the highest value-added microsatellite platforms. This project represents an exciting milestone for our company and for the European space sector,” said Guillermo Lamelas, CEO of Alén Space.
DHV Technology will execute the development of the power subsystem for the satellite platform within the IVSEN project. Leveraging previously developed in-house technology, the Electrical Power Subsystem (EPS) will comprise a Power Conversion and Distribution Unit (PCDU), a battery module, and a set of solar panels engineered to meet stringent hardware and mission-specific requirements.
“As a specialized supplier of such systems for small satellites platforms, DHV will lead the development of this crucial subsystem of the spacecraft, in close coordination with the satellite structure development, payload integration, and requirements definition. Through this project, DHV demonstrates its ongoing commitment to advancing product innovation and the evolution of next-generation technologies,” Dr. Vicente Díaz, Managing Director and Co-founder of DHV Technology.
GeoAI Analytics, specialized in geospatial artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics, within the IVSEN project leads the Data Segment, developing the analytical framework and AI algorithms that transform Very High Resolution (VHR) satellite imagery into operational intelligence for the energy sector. Its work includes the design of predictive models for infrastructure condition assessment and risk anticipation, as well as the creation of digital twins and 3D environments that enable the visualization and simulation of energy assets.
These components constitute the analytical core of IVSEN, integrating seamlessly with the other system segments to deliver a comprehensive monitoring and intelligent management service for energy networks.
“At GeoAI, we believe that combining Earth Observation and Artificial Intelligence is key to building smarter, safer, and more sustainable energy infrastructures. Through IVSEN, we contribute to transforming satellite data into real operational intelligence, helping utilities anticipate risks, enhance efficiency, and strengthen the resilience of their networks,” said Luis Ferreira, CEO, GeoAI Analytics.
“ESA is pleased to support the industrial consortium via the IVSEN activity. InCubed is a commercially oriented programme that aims to enable innovative and viable products developed by industry, and IVSEN presents strong potential in this regard. We are hopeful that the combined expertise and close collaboration of the partners will result in a scalable and competitive solution for Very High-Resolution Earth Observation data. We look forward to working closely with the team throughout the implementation of this activity,” said Pejman Nejadi, InCubed Officer at the European Space Agency.