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The Chilean Air Force (FACh) has achieved a milestone by successfully launching its FASat-Delta satellite, marking the initiation of its National Satellite System (SNSat). The satellite was launched from the U.S. Space Force’s Vandenberg Base in California aboard the Falcon 9 rocket module of SpaceX. The launch took place on June 12, with the separation of the satellite from the rocket occurring as planned one hour and twenty minutes after the launch.

FASat-Delta is an optical observation satellite with a resolution of 72 centimeters. Its primary purpose is to improve border monitoring, as well as the observation of air, land, and maritime spaces. Additionally, the satellite will enhance the monitoring of the impact of global warming. The FACh stated that FASat-Delta will work in conjunction with the existing FASat-Charlie satellite, further enhancing the observation capabilities of the SNSat project.

The launch was monitored by the FACh high command at the Aerial Photogrammetric Service in Santiago, as well as representatives from the Chilean Space Policy Council and other governmental authorities. General Hugo Rodríguez, FACh commander, and FACh Brigadier General Luis Felipe Sáez, along with a delegation of Chilean scientists and defense officials, were present at the launch site in the United States.

Chile’s Minister of National Assets, Javiera Toro, expressed that the successful launch is a significant achievement that will revolutionize geospatial information in Chile. She mentioned that the satellite will provide more, better, and timely information about the national territory, which was previously relied upon purchasing from other countries.

The FACh emphasized the importance of space as a strategic area for national development and expressed its alignment with the United States’ vision on space exploration. It mentioned that the United States’ contribution to Chile’s space plans involves access to technology and improved communication and photography systems.

FASat-Delta is the first of 10 satellites that will form the SNSat constellation. Its launch represents a technological leap for Chile in terms of monitoring capabilities, processing capacity, and image download. It also increases the country’s capacity for information cooperation with partner countries in various sectors, including technology, agriculture, and defense. Chile’s National Space Policy aims to construct three national space stations in different regions of the country to enhance satellite data reception and analysis.

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