Bright Ascension has announced the successful launch of another spacecraft, powered by its innovative space software technology. The TROLL satellite, the Czech Republic’s largest and most ambitious space mission to date, launched on 14th January 2025 as part of the SpaceX Transporter 12 mission. This milestone not only showcases the Czech Republic’s growing space exploration capabilities but also highlights Bright Ascension’s role in advancing the future of space software technology.
TROLL, designed and developed by TRL Space, is a 6U CubeSat with the primary goal of demonstrating new technologies in the commercial domain while also building critical heritage for the Czech Republic’s space sector. Equipped with advanced technologies like an on-board data processing unit and a hyperspectral imager, the spacecraft will provide critical invisible insights to a wide range of industries such as agriculture, environmental organisations, and defence.
Building on the success of over 50 missions to date, Bright Ascension’s software infrastructure will play a central role in supporting the satellite’s core functionalities and enabling future technology demonstrations. As TROLL progresses through its life in orbit, it will also make full use of Bright Ascension’s mission control software and its tight integration with the flight side for straightforward and automated mission operations.
"We are proud to support the launch of the TROLL satellite, a significant milestone for both TRL Space and the Czech Republic," said Peter Mendham, CEO of Bright Ascension. "The TROLL spacecraft yet again demonstrates our commitment to transforming the New Space sector through our innovative software solutions. Over time, we would be pleased to enhance the mission with upcoming products of our HELIX suite to offer seamless integration between the operational side and the commercial service delivery.”