Our team is made up of students, professors, and researchers from UVG who work on the design, construction, testing, and operation of CubeSat-type nanosatellites. In addition to developing these nanosatellites, the laboratory also designs and operates testing infrastructure, ground stations, and applied research projects in space technology.
The laboratory provides a unique space in Guatemala for training human talent in areas such as embedded systems, control systems, electronic design, mechanical design, satellite operations, and space project management. Through this, the laboratory aims to continue contributing to the development of national capabilities in the aerospace sector.
Design, integration, and operation of CubeSat-type nanosatellites and their subsystems.
Operation of ground stations for communication, monitoring, and control of satellites in orbit.
Hardware and firmware development for space systems and related applications.
Functional and environmental testing, including simulation of space conditions.
Technical training for students and scientific outreach in space technology.
Cooperation with universities, space agencies, and international organizations.
Key Milestones of the Aerospace Laboratory
2014 — Launch of the Quetzal Space Program
UVG initiates the country’s first space program, with the development of Guatemala’s first satellite, QUETZAL-1.
2020 — QUETZAL-1 Launch
Guatemala becomes a spacefaring nation and the second Central American country to place a satellite in orbit. QUETZAL-1, the first Guatemalan satellite, is launched into space from the International Space Station (ISS).
2021 — Founding of the Aerospace Laboratory
The UVG Aerospace Laboratory is established as a formal research and development unit in space technology. It is managed and coordinated by UVG’s Department of Mechanical Engineering.
2024 — Start of the QUETZAL-2 Project
Development begins on Guatemala’s second satellite, QUETZAL-2, incorporating greater technical capabilities and an expanded team of students, professors, and researchers.
2025 — Active Development of QUETZAL-2
The project advances through the detailed design, integration, and subsystem construction phases.