LEUVEN, BELGIUM and BILBAO, SPAIN — In a major development for the European space sector, optical payload specialist Simera Sense and leading engineering firm IDOM have announced a strategic partnership to develop and manufacture the optical system for the next-generation MultiScape350 Very High-Resolution Earth Observation imager.
The collaboration unites Simera Sense’s extensive expertise in spaceborne imaging payloads, sensor electronics, calibration, and mission optimization with IDOM’s internationally recognized proficiency in advanced optical design, opto-mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and the qualification of high-performance space optical systems.
Under the terms of the new agreement, IDOM will spearhead the development and production of the Optical Front End (OFE) for the advanced MultiScape350 payload. Meanwhile, Simera Sense will supply the sensor subsystem, onboard electronics, thermal management systems, calibration methodologies, satellite interface and integration architecture, and manage the overall productization of the payload.
By combining their respective technical strengths, the two organizations aim to deliver a world-class Earth observation imaging system tailored to the growing needs of global satellite manufacturers and commercial, civil, and government operators.
Addressing the Booming Demand for High-Resolution Earth Observation
The MultiScape350 programme has been designed specifically to address a rapidly surging demand for higher-resolution Earth observation imagery across multiple sectors. According to space market research and forecasting by Novaspace, more than 6,500 Earth observation satellites are expected to launch globally by 2035. This massive projected growth is being driven largely by governments around the world actively expanding their sovereign intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, alongside expanding commercial mapping and environmental monitoring applications.
Modern satellite constellations require imaging systems that can deliver exceptional clarity while remaining strictly compatible with the tight size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints characteristic of contemporary small satellite platforms. The MultiScape350 system is engineered precisely to meet these rigorous criteria, providing very high-resolution imaging capabilities without imposing excessive resource demands on host spacecraft.
Leadership from both companies expressed high enthusiasm for the partnership and the technical milestones ahead. Johann du Toit, Chief Executive Officer of Simera Sense, emphasized the strong foundation already established between the two engineering teams.
"We are delighted to partner with IDOM on the MultiScape350 optical system," said du Toit. "Over the past few months, our teams have developed a strong working relationship built on shared engineering excellence, openness, and a commitment to delivering exceptional space hardware. By combining Simera Sense’s proven imaging payload heritage with IDOM’s outstanding optical and opto-mechanical capabilities, we believe we can accelerate the development of a highly competitive Earth observation solution for the global market."
Gaizka Murga, Head of Astronomy and Space at IDOM, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the collaborative nature of the European space industry.
"We are excited to work alongside Simera Sense on the MultiScape350 programme," said Murga. "This partnership combines complementary capabilities and creates a strong European collaboration in advanced space technology. Our team looks forward to contributing our experience in precision optical systems to help deliver a highly capable Earth observation instrument."
Expanding Capabilities and European Industrial Footprint
Simera Sense’s imaging technology is already widely adopted across the global small satellite market, with more than sixty satellite original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and research organizations currently utilizing the company’s hardware worldwide. The introduction of the MultiScape350 platform represents a substantial and strategic expansion of Simera Sense’s product portfolio, significantly enhancing the company’s capability to support increasingly demanding and complex Earth observation missions.
Furthermore, the strategic partnership with IDOM significantly strengthens Simera Sense’s industrial capabilities and deepens its European supply-chain footprint. Beyond the immediate scope of the MultiScape350 programme, the alliance establishes a robust foundation for future collaborative optical programmes between the two companies as the space market continues to evolve.
About Simera Sense
Simera Sense is a leading European provider of optical payloads and image-processing tools for space-based imaging. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Belgium, with additional strategic offices located in South Africa, France, and the United Kingdom, the company currently serves more than 50 clients worldwide. Simera Sense delivers comprehensive, end-to-end solutions for small satellite imagers spanning RGB, video, multispectral, and hyperspectral applications.
About IDOM
IDOM is an independent professional services multinational that delivers high-performance, built-to-spec optical and mechatronic solutions for advanced science and technology applications. Through its dedicated Astronomy and Space division, IDOM has established an extensive, proven track record in the design, manufacture, and space qualification of advanced optical and opto-mechanical systems for demanding space and scientific missions.
