U-Space selects Skynopy to operate its two in-orbit satellites, SOAP and PANDORE, and partners with Skynopy on an ESA programme to pioneer X-band dynamic modulation for small satellites

This dual-satellite contract reflects growing operator confidence in the reliability and technical depth of Skynopy's service, and marks a significant step in the relationship between the two French companies, who are also collaborating under the ESA PUSH programme to implement dynamic modulation in X-band on U-Space's small satellite platforms.

SOAP and PANDORE: two complementary missions, one uncompromising standard
Launched in March 2025 aboard a SpaceX Transporter-13 rideshare mission, SOAP (Satellite Optique pour Analyse et Positionnement des débris) and PANDORE are the first two satellites entirely designed, assembled, and operated by U-Space from its Toulouse facilities. Both fly in Sun-Synchronous Orbit at an altitude of 590 km.

SOAP is dedicated to space surveillance aiming to demonstrate the added value of the space-based situational awareness (SBSS) and to improve the volume and accuracy of the data gathered while cataloguing the small debris. PANDORE, meanwhile, is an in-orbit demonstration (IOD) mission carrying Safran Space's Synchrocube payload, which validates LEO-based positioning and synchronisation services capable of complementing or backing up degraded or jammed GNSS signals.