Luxembourg’s Earth Observation Satellite, developed by OHB Italia, is now in orbit
Vandenberg, California-USA, August 26th, 2025 – OHB Italia S.p.A. is pleased to announce the successful launch of NAOS (National Advanced Optical System), the Earth observation satellite developed for the Luxembourg Directorate of Defence.
The satellite was launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California (USA) at 20:53 CEST. The launch and early operation phase is completed and the satellite has reached its nominal orbit.
NAOS is a very-high-resolution optical satellite system, developed by OHB Italia S.p.A. as Prime Contractor and includes the satellite platform, the optical payload and the ground segment.
The space segment features a single satellite in Low Earth Orbit, equipped with a state-of- the-art high resolution optical camera, enabling the acquisition of detailed Earth imagery to support Luxembourg’s institutional, military, security and environmental applications.
The ground segment, designed with a distributed architecture, ensures reliable operations and system monitoring. All relevant mission centers are connected via a secure ground communication network, allowing for streamlined control, data reception and processing.
NAOS will provide high-definition images from Low Earth Orbit, allowing Luxembourg to autonomously obtain key satellite data for the benefit of its national institutions and international partners. These images will strengthen situational awareness and operational monitoring.
“With our state of the art dual-use Luxembourg Earth observation system, we will meet a growing need for very high-resolution governmental imagery, thus contributing to national, European and transatlantic security.” – said Yuriko Backes, Minister of Defence of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg – “Today’s launch and the subsequent operationalization of the system are important steps in the realization of our national Defence Space Strategy.”
“With NAOS we are proud to contribute to Luxembourg’s growing role in the space domain, delivering excellence in both satellite technology and related ground architecture.” – stated Roberto Aceti, Managing Director of OHB Italia S.p.A. – “This mission demonstrates our Company’s ability to manage and deliver complete space systems, responding to the strategic needs of our partners.”
OHB Italia expresses its appreciation to the Luxembourg Directorate of Defence and to all stakeholders involved in the implementation of the NAOS program.
