lukasiewicz.gov.pl
At Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation, the SPARK project (Spacecraft Platform Architecture for Research and Key-enabling missions) was officially presented. This is the first initiative in the history of the Łukasiewicz Research Network that aims to place a Polish 3U CubeSat research satellite into Earth orbit.
The event was attended by the Minister of Science and Higher Education, Dr. Eng. Marcin Kulasek, who emphasized the project’s importance for the development of national technological and scientific potential:
“The SPARK project is also a signal to Polish researchers, PhD students, engineers, and students: you no longer need to leave the country to shape the future. You can do it here, in Poland, at a world-class level. I believe this platform will inspire a new generation.”
SPARK: a success of networked cooperation
It should be noted that SPARK is being developed through the combined expertise of several institutes within the Network. The project is led by Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation, with partners including Łukasiewicz – Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals and Łukasiewicz – Industrial Research Institute for Automation and Measurements PIAP.
The SPARK research satellite will enable the testing of components developed in Poland, including avionics systems, power sources, onboard computers, and communication technologies.
This project is a direct outcome of the Łukasiewicz Research Network’s strategic plan, which includes the development of dual-use technologies (civilian and military) and the establishment of sovereign space capabilities.
“The Łukasiewicz Research Network has the chance to become a driving force thanks to the expertise built within the institutes of the Network – just like here, at Łukasiewicz – ILOT, the leader of our consortium in this project,” emphasized Dr. Hubert Cichocki, President of the Łukasiewicz Centre. “The Institute possesses, among others, laboratories for satellite integration and its own ground segment with a data processing center. We are committed to making full use of the Łukasiewicz Research Network’s existing potential,” he added.
SPARK meets the needs of the National Space Program and Polish Space Strategy
Thanks to the project, Polish technologies will gain valuable “flight heritage” – validation of their operation under orbital conditions, significantly enhancing their credibility and export potential.
Future development plans
The SPARK satellite will be based on an onboard computer developed from the experience of the ILR-33 BURSZTYN 2K rocket mission in 2024, which was the first in Polish history to reach the boundary of space (101 km altitude).
“This project brings together competencies we’ve built over years in the space technology domain. The capabilities developed through this initiative will allow the Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation to become the heart of the domestic space sector, capable of conducting an orbital mission from A to Z. SPARK focuses on the practical development of satellite engineering, covering the full mission lifecycle – from concept and platform design, through integration and environmental testing, to operational use in orbit,” said Dr. hab. Eng. Cezary Szczepański, Director of Łukasiewicz – ILOT.
The implementation of the project will take 30 months. The consortium of Łukasiewicz institutes will receive PLN 14.6 million under a Dedicated Task granted by the President of the Łukasiewicz Centre – one of the internal funding instruments available within the organization.
The SPARK platform will be made available to all Łukasiewicz institutes and Polish scientific institutions, opening entirely new research and commercialization opportunities.
source: lukasiewicz.gov.pl
