Xataka reported that a FOSSA Systems 6U satellite carrying IENAI Space’s ATHENA NANO launched from Cape Canaveral on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 during the Bandwagon-5 rideshare mission on October 20, 2026. FOSSA Systems built the spacecraft; Madrid-based IENAI Space developed its electric-propulsion system.
How ATHENA NANO uses electrospray propulsion
Xataka describes ATHENA NANO’s method as electrospray propulsion. An electric field extracts ions, or charged particles, from liquid salt. Their ejection produces thrust in the opposite direction through action and reaction.
What the reported Spanish first means
Xataka described the spacecraft as the first satellite manufactured in Spain with electric propulsion. The distinction concerns the satellite’s manufacture and propulsion: Xataka also reported that ATHENA NANO had flown before, on a satellite launched during Isar Aerospace’s Spectrum 2 mission. Xataka described the Bandwagon-5 flight as ATHENA NANO’s first use with another Spanish company.
This spacecraft is separate from SpainSat NG I. Fundación Descubre describes SpainSat NG I, launched on January 28, 2025, as a secure-communications satellite for Spain’s armed forces and institutional users.
The post-launch steps reported at publication
In its October 21, 2026, account, Xataka said initial activations were expected after launch, followed by simulated constellation maneuvers. The planned simulations included reaching operational orbit, maintaining position relative to other satellites, and avoiding collisions with satellites or debris.
