A NanoAvionics-designed nanosatellite. Photo: NanoAvionics.

NanoAvionics is partnering with the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) and students from the Polytechnic University of Atlacomulco to develop the first nanosatellite for the State of Mexico, the AtlaCom-1. This is part of a pilot project to establish a nanosatellite infrastructure for future space missions designed and built by Mexico’s youth. The project will start in September. 

NanoAvionics’ engineers will share their space mission experience and help the students and faculty at the Polytechnic University of Atlacomulco to develop the ATLA-1. The teams will use NanoAvionics’ nanosatellite buses, which are pre-configured and pre-qualified, so the team can focus on their payloads. NanoAvionics said in an April 17 release that this will allow the teams to produce results quicker and have their satellite constellations can enter commercial service faster. CEO Brent Abbott said the project show’s the company’s commitment to furthering STEM education. 

“Nanosatellites and other technologies such as breakthroughs in robotics, 3D-printing and biotech mark the fourth industrial revolution and promise enormous economic benefits, not only to Mexico but the whole world,” said Atlacomulco Mayor Téllez-Monroy, an engineer. “NanoAvionics’ commitment to developing the technical skills of students in Atlacomulco will help [build] a solid foundation for Mexico’s emerging nanosatellite industry.”