Ankara: Turkish defense giant Aselsan announced it has successfully launched its second satellite, LUNA-2, from California aboard a SpaceX rocket, marking a significant advancement in its space-based Internet of Things (IoT) solutions program.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aselsan shared on the US social media platform X that it is continuing to enhance its role in Trkiye's space ecosystem by utilizing its technological expertise in satellite communications, payload systems, ground control infrastructure, and platform solutions. Despite being a nanosatellite, LUNA-2 is engineered to ensure secure and uninterrupted sensor data transmission, even in remote locations, through a dedicated LoRa communication system. This system facilitates wide-area coverage while maintaining low energy consumption.

Aselsan revealed that all processes related to the design, development, production, integration, and testing of LUNA-2 were conducted internally. The flight software, ground control software, LoRa transceiver card used as the payload, and data transfer unit were all developed by Aselsan engineers utilizing domestic capabilities. The launch of LUNA-2 is anticipated to bolster Aselsan's capabilities in space-based IoT and contribute to Trkiye's ambition of establishing an independent, competitive, and sustainable space technology ecosystem.

LUNA-2 follows the footsteps of its predecessor, LUNA-1, which was launched into orbit in December last year aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.