TEKEVER Space has launched a new Earth Observation project named ATLARCTIC in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA).
The ATLARCTIC project, developed under InCubed, an Earth Observation Programme managed by ESA Φ-lab, explores the design of a compact, wide-swath Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite. This initiative is intended to strengthen Europe’s capacity to monitor the strategically significant Arctic and North Atlantic regions.
The need for continuous surveillance over these northern waters is pressing due to growing environmental and economic risks from issues such as illegal fishing, unauthorized mining, and unregulated natural resource exploration. Furthermore, the melting sea ice is opening new Arctic navigation routes, which intensify geopolitical and environmental challenges.
The project will leverage TEKEVER’s expertise in compact X-band radar systems, which are capable of capturing detailed images day or night and in any weather condition. This technology will be used to demonstrate how Europe can provide real-time situational awareness across some of the world’s most remote regions.
ATLARCTIC is designed to support public authorities, maritime operators, and environmental agencies with missions including oil spill detection, illegal fishing, border protection, navigation safety, and ice monitoring. The compact radar payload and onboard data processing are expected to allow for faster image delivery and mission responsiveness compared to existing Earth Observation systems.
Pedro Rodrigues, Business Development Director for TEKEVER Space, stated, “ATLARCTIC represents a step-change in how Europe monitors and protects its northern waters. By bringing together proven radar technology from our airborne systems with an agile space platform, we can deliver real-time insights that directly support maritime safety, environmental protection and European sovereignty.”
Unlike many commercial SAR systems, ATLARCTIC is explicitly designed for sovereign tasking and institutional control, ensuring that European public authorities maintain full ownership of their data and mission priorities. The project is currently in its feasibility phase, which runs through early 2026, and involves user engagement with European maritime, defence, and environmental agencies. The ultimate goal is to develop a roadmap for a future demonstration mission later in the decade.
Daniele Romagnoli, ESA InCubed Officer, commented, “ATLARCTIC is consistent with the mission of InCubed programme, where innovative European companies work hand in hand with the Agency to address pressing operational needs. By integrating TEKEVER’s radar expertise, this study helps pave the way for a new generation of responsive, European-led Earth Observation missions.”
