The Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María (USM) is taking a significant step in strengthening its capabilities in research, development, and innovation (R&D+i) within the space sector. This follows a recent visit by representatives from the National Space Center (CEN), a Chilean Air Force (FACh) unit that leads Chile’s current Space Program. The CEN aims to position the country as a regional leader in scientific and technological development.
“We can define the National Space Center as a major hub for knowledge and development of space technology in the country. It’s a center that will allow us to advance in space knowledge and, above all, to develop space technology,” comments Aviation Colonel (DA) Héctor Contreras.
During an exploratory meeting held at USM’s facilities in Valparaíso, academic authorities and FACh representatives discussed the university’s scientific and technological capabilities, highlighting the role of its laboratories, research groups, and advanced human capital training programs.
The event was led by the Advanced Center for Electrical and Electronic Engineering (AC3E) and USM’s Innovation Directorate. Representatives from the General Directorate of Community Engagement, the Valparaíso Scientific and Technological Center (CCTVal), the Office of Technology Transfer and Licensing (OTTL), and the Departments of Aeronautics, Physics, and Electronics also participated.
Regarding the meeting, Alejandro Weinstein, an associate researcher at AC3E and coordinator of the event, comments that “this first official visit is an opportunity to initiate a long-term collaboration. The Satellite Plan is an opportunity that, in my opinion, we cannot miss. It opens up the possibility for us to start working on issues that will impact public policy and the work of the entire Chilean industry.”
The university’s experience with initiatives like USM CubeSat was also highlighted, along with research and development lines related to flight simulators, microelectronics, and even the development of optical mirrors using carbon fiber and polymers for satellites.
National Space Center (CEN): A New Space Race for Chile
The recently created National Space Center (CEN) is the FACh’s new technological unit, located in Bicentenario Park in Cerrillos. Its objective is to become a strategic platform for the country’s scientific and economic development, leveraging the capabilities that the defense sector places at the nation’s service.
The first stage of this space plan focuses on implementing a satellite constellation with various payloads, aimed at solving diverse problems. “These images will provide valuable information to address challenges in areas such as forest fires, climatology, agriculture, and mining,” explains Colonel Contreras, current director of the CEN.
The University and the FACh will continue working to identify joint projects, such as opportunities for specialized training, student internships, and technology development, in line with the challenges of the Chilean space program and the country’s sustainable development.
By USM General Directorate of Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
