HAWK
Argotec's modular microsatellite platform, up to about 130 kg in its HAWK PLUS version, which flew in deep space on LICIACube and ArgoMoon and is the basis for Italy's HEO Earth-observation satellites.
Why it matters
Few small-satellite buses have worked far from Earth. HAWK's deep space record gives it credibility for lunar and planetary missions, and an evolution of the design is used for Argotec's HEO Earth-observation constellation of up to 40 satellites in Italy's IRIDE program.
How the technology works
HAWK PLUS is assembled from stocked standard modules at Argotec's SpacePark near Turin, with the customer payload integrated late. Argotec builds nearly everything in house, including avionics such as its FERMI onboard computer.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction