The BIFROST satellite, a collaborative effort between Denmark and Sweden, has successfully entered orbit. Developed by Space Inventor with contributions from Terma, Gatehouse SatCom, DTU, and Swedish Unibap Space Solutions, the satellite's launch on June 23rd from Vandenberg Space Force Base marks the culmination of a seven-year development project. The project received funding from the Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV).
This launch aligns with the Danish government's Space Strategy for Research and Innovation 2025–2035, prioritizing Arctic security. BIFROST's capabilities are crucial for monitoring navigation in icy waters, search and rescue operations, and maintaining sovereignty. The satellite boasts cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, inter-satellite communication, and modern satellite design. It's specifically designed to provide space-based surveillance, target identification, and real-time reporting for the Danish and Swedish Defence forces in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions.
BIFROST is a microsatellite weighing approximately 50 kilograms with a five-meter wingspan, equipped to capture optical images and multispectral infrared data. A constellation of 20 such satellites would provide 24/7 Arctic maritime activity monitoring. The mission aims to improve situational awareness and data sharing, enhancing Denmark and Sweden’s rapid response capabilities within European and international partnerships. Space Inventor expressed strong confidence in the mission's success; the launch can be viewed online.