FENTISS software now powers over 1,000 spacecraft

FENTISS has reached a significant industry milestone. Its real-time hypervisor, XtratuM, is now deployed in over 1,000 satellites and spacecraft, making it one of the most widely adopted system software in orbit. This achievement coincides with the company’s 15th anniversary, highlighting a legacy of technological excellence and innovation.

Since its founding in 2009, FENTISS has worked closely with major space agencies and industry leaders. With a specialized team of 20 professionals and headquarters in Valencia, the company has earned a strong reputation for delivering high-performance, cutting-edge technological solutions.

At the core of its product portfolio is XtratuM/Next Generation (XNG), a real-time hypervisor specifically engineered for critical embedded systems. Hypervisors enable multiple operating systems to run simultaneously, securely, and independently on a single hardware platform by efficiently partitioning system resources—an essential capability in space applications. In the harsh and unforgiving conditions of space, this partitioning is crucial to ensuring the safety and reliability of spacecraft operations.

XtratuM has been deployed in a wide array of high-profile missions. Most notably, it powers over 600 satellites in the OneWeb constellation, which aims to provide global broadband (5G) connectivity. The software also supports scientific exploration missions such as JUICE, focused on Jupiter’s icy moons, and MMX, dedicated to Mars exploration. Additionally, XtratuM is integral to Earth observation initiatives like SWOT and Merlin, as well as satellite communication projects including Kineis, further demonstrating its broad impact across the aerospace sector.

Over the years, XtratuM has undergone significant technological advancements, including enhanced modularity, improved performance, and full compliance with ECSS standards. It is also compatible with advanced processors, including those built on open hardware architectures. This adaptability has driven its widespread adoption—valued not only for its technical robustness but also for its alignment with strategic objectives in autonomy and technological sovereignty across Europe.

In response to increasing global demand, FENTISS has recently opened a new branch in Toulouse, one of Europe’s leading aerospace hubs, to reinforce its presence in the industrial ecosystem and provide closer support to strategic clients.

“The fact that more than 1,000 satellites and spacecraft are operating with XtratuM and its ecosystem is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team,” said Manuel Muñoz, CEO of FENTISS. “This milestone reinforces our position as a trusted provider of system software in aerospace and motivates us to continue driving innovation at the forefront of the industry.”

Coinciding with the company’s 15th anniversary, this achievement reaffirms FENTISS’ commitment to advancing critical technologies and contributing to the future of space exploration.