Updated on: Jan 2024
The Chilean space industry has emerged as a promising sector in recent years, driven by both governmental and academic initiatives. While Chile may not possess its own rocket launch capabilities, it has become a significant player in astronomical research and satellite technology.

Chile has increasingly invested in developing its satellite technology. Projects such as the FASat-Delta, the successor of the FASat-Charlie; and Universidad de Chile’s Suchai satellites have showcased Chile’s growing prowess in this field. These satellites serve various purposes, including environmental monitoring, telecommunications, and educational initiatives.

Collaborations with international space agencies and organizations have further bolstered Chile’s position in space research. Partnerships with entities like NASA and the European Space Agency have facilitated knowledge exchange and technology transfer, fostering the growth of Chile’s space capabilities.

Currently there is no active civilian space agency, discussion at different levels regarding its creation on their way. For the time being the institution in charge of space affairs is the Council of Ministers for Space Development.

National Points of Contact (NPoC)

Sebasthian Ogalde C. Cristóbal Troncoso
Satellite Engineer, Space Entrepreneur Chilean Airforce
(since 2023) (since 2024)

FASat-Delta Render

1st Space Conference in Antofagasta, organised by Sebasthian Ogalde

Comparison between FASat-Charlie and FASat-Delta

SUCHAI 2, 3, and Plantsat

Young Space Activities Overview in Chile

In Chile most aerospace activities are focus on aeronautics and astronomy. Several amateur astronomers are spread in the country and have events throughout the year. A few parties remembering Yuri’s first space flight have been organized throughout the years. 

Interesting Web Links for the Young Generation in Chile

  • Council of Ministers for Space Development, website devoted to the Council as  well as Executive Secretariat and Scientific technical committee activities. Provides an   overview of the government lead developments in space affairs.
  • Suchai 1st Chilean CubeSat, currently assembled and waiting for its ride into space   throughout the year. The Space and Planetary Exploration Lab (SPEL) from the   University of Chile, which lead the project, has already secured funds for developing its successors. For more information check the website http://spel.ing.uchile.cl/suchai.html
  • Aerospace Students Society, association of Aerospace Engineering students from  the University of Concepcion. Started in 2010,  has been re-activated in 2015 after a   brief pause. It carries out activities related to aerospace field, some of which are   opened for general public.
  • Space Operations Group (Chilean Airforce), group operating Fasat-Charlie  satellite, website contains a good description of the satellite characteristics, remote   sensing applications, news, and overall project description.
  • Robotic & Environmental Algorithms Laboratory (REAL): Formerly involved in the  development of a lunar rover as part of the GLxP Angelicvm team, focuses in “Robotic   technology closer to this world and beyond”. Has developments in rovers, CubeSats and active involvement with high schools.
  • Angelicum GLxP, is one of the only two Latin American teams currently involved in the Google Lunar x-Prize, that plans to put a rover on the Moon, it comprises a cooperation between Academia and Industry.
  • Scholarships for MSc and PhD abroad Becas Chile. Provides a set of different scholarships for studying both abroad and in the country.
  • Aerospace Engineering at University of Concepción. It is the only university in the country that gives the major in Aerospace Engineering.
  • Actualidad Espacial, a free-lance website that provides with information on the ongoing Aerospace and Astronomical activities .
  • Servicio Aerofotogrametrico (SAF), is the body of the air force that deals with the distribution and purchase of images both form planes and the Chilean Satellite.
  • Engineers Professional Association, organizes several engineering related activities during the year. Has a committees that organize talks related to space a few times a year.
  • Atacama Solar Challenge, a solar power car race in the Atacama Desert. This car are built using a lot of aerospace technologies and material by teams of university students from all the country and from other Latin American Countries.
  • National Aerospace Museum, located in Santiago has a collection of aerospace artefacts. The space exhibition counts with Moon rock samples from the Apollo time to a 1:1 model of the Fasat-Charlie satellite. 
  • Public visits to ALMA, Saturday and Sunday mornings.
  • Magellan Aerospace Industries (MAI), small company dedicated to diffusion of astronautics and astronomy in the region of Magallanes (South end of Continental Chile).