The global construction industry is operating in an environment of increasing project complexity and mounting cost pressure. In this context, real-time and scalable construction monitoring has become a strategic priority.
As a contractual partner in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Space for Construction Monitoring programme, our group is developing a new service built on satellite Earth observation data and BIM-based digital twin models.
SaSCA: A New Service for Construction Monitoring
Our joint innovation, SaSCA (Satellite Scanning and Construction Analytics), is designed to enable highly accurate monitoring of construction progress—without the need for continuous on-site presence.
At the core of the concept lies the integration of optical and radar satellite data with 4D/5D BIM models. This approach offers particular advantages for large-scale industrial and infrastructure developments, where traditional control methods—such as geodetic surveys, drone inspections, and manual reporting—are difficult to scale and often excessively time- and cost-intensive.
SaSCA provides regular, time-stamped reporting, identification of scheduling deviations, early indication of potential cost and risk factors and enhanced decision support for investors and project managers
A key element of the development is that satellite Earth observation data functions as a continuous external reference point. This makes it possible to detect deviations and emerging risks during construction—rather than retrospectively.
HeatScape Resolve: Foundation and Precedent
The current ESA collaboration builds on prior experience. In December 2023, Paulinyi & Partners participated in ESA’s Space for Green Construction programme, within which we developed HeatScape Resolve—a satellite-data-driven solution designed to analyse urban microclimates and the urban heat island effect.
HeatScape Resolve demonstrated that space-derived data can be successfully integrated into architectural planning from both a business and technical perspective. The data integration and modelling expertise gained through that project established the professional and technological foundation for the development of SaSCA.
The space-industry experience acquired in microclimate analysis is now being applied to the field of construction monitoring.
International Programme, Hungarian Innovation
This newly launched development marks another milestone for our organization. Space technology is not an experimental endeavour, but a practical tool that enhances the accuracy, transparency, and sustainability of construction decision-making.
The future of construction is shaped not only at the drafting table, but also within the data streams of satellites orbiting the Earth. This technology-driven approach aligns with Paulinyi & Partners’ long-term digital and innovation strategy, which focuses on developing data-driven solutions across the entire lifecycle of the built environment.
(Paulinyi & Partners Zrt. is participating in the ARTES 4.0 Downstream Applications programme within the framework of the European Space Agency’s Space for Construction Monitoring call. The project is implemented with the support of the European Space Agency; the views expressed in this communication do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Space Agency.)