The article states that although the project will cost millions, it will outperform global competitors in terms of sophistication, data quality and space efficiency. The initiative, known as Mission Drak, is part of the Brno Space Cluster, the largest space association in the Czech Republic, founded in 2021 and comprising 22 members from industry and academia. The project is supported by key figures, including Radek Hasala, head of the military office of the President of the Republic, and Markéta Vaňková, Mayor of Brno.
According to the article, the satellite will take highly detailed images from orbit that will help Ukrainian forces more effectively target Russian military equipment and protect their territory. The satellite is equipped with a Ground Sampling Distance (GSD), or Ground Sampling Distance, camera at 0.7 to 0.9 meters and will be able to image specific areas in Ukraine on a daily basis. The satellite consists of 16 cubic units, which are categorized as 16U satellites, are compact and lightweight. Advanced algorithms will enable automatic detection and identification of objects, with data processing taking place directly on the satellite.
The article also highlights the contribution of various Czech companies that have been involved in the development of components for the satellite. For example, Zaitra focuses on creating AI-driven parts that identify user needs on board the satellite. CORAC Engineering develops software to secure communications between the satellite and ground stations, ensuring data integrity. Meanwhile, World from Space specialises in processing raw satellite data into usable analysis for experts.
Funding for the Dragon mission will come from both state and commercial institutions, in addition to a crowdfunding campaign called "Weapons to Ukraine", which allows citizens to contribute. The article states that although the projected costs may seem high for a single satellite mission, they are competitive in the context of the space industry.
"There are many initiatives to help Ukraine today... but the last element, and that is the precise targeting, the precise monitoring of what is happening... that was missing and that is what the Drak mission delivers," says Petr Kapoun, head of the coordinating company TRL Space and chairman of the board of the Brno Space Cluster.
Petr Kapoun stresses that this mission not only helps Ukraine, but also represents a significant technological advance for the companies involved. The overarching objective includes not only defence but also contributing to the reconstruction of Ukrainian industry after the conflict.
*the full version of the article is written in Czech language
