26 Jul 24. Hanwha Aerospace and the University of Surrey sign a MoU for space collaboration.
- Hanwha Aerospace signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Surrey to boost space collaborations on the sidelines of Farnborouh International Airshow 2024.
- Both parties are to work together for joint satellite technical demonstration, leveraging the university’s satellite platforms and Hanwha’s space launch capacity.
- Hanwha aims to be a leading player in the global space launch industry through a complete value chain of space businesses under the Space Hub initiative.
Hanwha Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Surrey in the UK to collaborate in joint satellite technical demonstration projects. The non-binding MoU was signed on 25th July at the university during the week of Farnborough International Airshow 2024
Under the agreement, both sides will initiate collaborative activities freviewing areas of common interest in the civil aspects of space, as pat f efforts to deal with the shortage of launch capacity and growing demand of satellite data.
Among the proposed collaborative activities are a series of satellite technical demonstration programs using satellite platforms from the university, and launch service by Hanwha’s Nuri rockets; developing a new commercial applications and services based on data and capabilities provided by satellites concerned.
“The Parties will jointly identify suitable projects of common interest that can be supported and developed in both Parties and countries,” the MoU states, adding other areas of cooperation will be further explored.
The Hanwha- Surrey collaboration comes amid the increasing demand for space-based services, as the world is facing a launch capacity shortfall from the gap between robust demands for satellite launches and the lack of availability in launch services.
25 Jul 24. US–Australia launch deal goes live. The landmark deal to allow more US rockets to blast off from Australian spaceports has come into force.
The news, revealed by Science Minister Ed Husic in Adelaide on Thursday, comes weeks after Australian MPs and senators approved the treaty, known as the Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA).
“It’s a great deal for Australia and our space industry,” said Minister Husic. “It strikes a balance between protecting sensitive US technology while unlocking new commercial opportunities for Australian companies.
“We’re already seeing evidence of that, just from the signing of the agreement late last year.
“The relationships built through this process – and the vote of confidence from the US that it trusts Australia – is generating activity before the agreement even beds in.
“The CEO of Southern Launch has described the TSA as a ‘game changer’ that will “accelerate the development of the Australian space industry.
“Plans are already underway for US company Varda Space to return its capsule to Koonibba in regional South Australia later this year … and conversations have also begun about future launches.
“With the TSA in place, it’s estimated Australian spaceport operators could supply between 45 and 95 space launches over the next decade with a value of between $460m to 1.2bn.
“This would be a massive uptick for Australia’s launch sector which was worth $27m in the 21/22 financial year.
“This demand will increase investment in local infrastructure and scale the Australian launch and return sector. It will expand the market that is open to Australian companies and uplift the entire local space sector.
“It also sends a powerful signal to other global collaborators that the world’s largest space nation trusts Australia and wants to do business here – and that they should too.”
Australia currently has several sites preparing to launch rockets, including ELA’s Arnhem Space Centre in the Northern Territory, Gilmour’s Bowen Orbital Spaceport in Queensland, and Southern Launch’s Orbital Launch Complex in South Australia.
However, launching US spacecraft in Australia has been difficult, given concerns about protecting sensitive US technology.
The new deal has been praised by both ELA and Southern Launch for removing red tape but criticised by rival Gilmour because it contains a number of controversial constraints, including one which means only US staff are allowed near their launch vehicles in specially defined “segregated areas”.
“Australia’s role would be essentially limited to renting out concrete pads and providing morning coffee to our American friends as they walk into their secured site,” Adam Gilmour told The Australian earlier this year.
“So much for supporting growth across our local supply chain and opening new doors for highly-skilled tech jobs and supply chains in Australia.”
As part of his speech, Husic also announced the Australian Space Agency had opened a consultation on the next set of reforms to the space activities legislation regarding launches.
“The purpose of this set is to remove inefficiencies and improve flexibility, while not impacting on safety,” he said.
The changes could include removing the three-stage application process for a launch facility licence and reducing the notice period that the Launch Safety Officer must give before a launch from ‘30 days’ to ‘20 days’. (Source: Space Connect)
25 Jul 24. Sierra Space, a leading commercial space-tech company that is Building a Platform in Space to Benefit Life on Earth®, announced today that its expandable space station technology successfully passed a seventh key validation test, and second full-scale structural test, at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The results herald a giant leap towards building the world’s first end-to-end business and technology platform in Low Earth Orbit, enabling humanity to find the answers to some of the toughest problems faced on Earth.
“No other company is moving at the speed of Sierra Space to develop actual hardware, stress-tested at full scale, and demonstrate repeatability. We’ve taken a softgoods system that very few companies around the world have been able to design, and now we have consistent, back-to-back results”
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Completion of the successful Ultimate Burst Pressure test, which occurred on June 18 in collaboration with ILC Dover (an Ingersoll Rand Business) and NASA, accelerates Sierra Space’s revolutionary softgoods technology towards on-orbit operations. Planned for an initial stand-alone pathfinder mission before the end of the decade, the technology will also feature as a key element of the Orbital Reef commercial space station. The test will close out Milestone #8 for Orbital Reef with Blue Origin under NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program. Please view video of the burst test here.
“We are 100 percent committed to maintaining U.S. leadership in Low Earth Orbit. Sierra Space is leading the way with the first commercial space station to replace the International Space Station when it is decommissioned and ensure there is no gap in LEO,” said Sierra Space CEO Tom Vice. “Our revolutionary, expandable space station technology reinvents the space station. Our technology, for the first time, will enable the right unit economics that will usher in the full commercialization of space. Our biotech and industrial partners will utilize our factories of the future to innovate new products that will massively disrupt terrestrial markets and benefit life on Earth.”
The latest test by the numbers:
- Company’s second Ultimate Burst Pressure test of a full-size, inflatable space station structure occurred on June 18
- Test unit stood over 20’ tall and was comparable in size to an average family home
- The article was 300 m³ in volume, or 1/3rd the volume of the International Space Station
- Test results exceeded NASA’s recommended x4 safety levels by 22%
- Two 4-ft x 4-ft steel blanking plates were integrated into the highest loaded cylinder section of the article; both were 50 lbs. lighter than the ones used in the first full-scale test and accommodate larger windows
The test article in the company’s historic first full-scale burst test last December peaked at 77 psi, which well exceeded (+27%) NASA’s recommended level of 60.8 psi (maximum operating pressure of 15.2 psi multiplied by a safety factor of four). This most recent test in June showed similar results – within five percent of the pressure loading of December’s test article – with this one reaching 74 psi, exceeding NASA’s 4x safety factor by 22 percent. These back-to-back test results accelerate Sierra Space’s path to flight certification, verifying scalability for 10 cubic-meter and up to 1,400 cubic-meter structures based on the company’s current softgoods inflatable architecture. Sierra Space is currently gearing up for a first test of its 500 cubic-meter space station technology next year.
“No other company is moving at the speed of Sierra Space to develop actual hardware, stress-tested at full scale, and demonstrate repeatability. We’ve taken a softgoods system that very few companies around the world have been able to design, and now we have consistent, back-to-back results,” said Shawn Buckley, VP of Earthspace™ Systems, Space Stations, at Sierra Space. “A second successful full-scale test is an absolute game changer. We now know it’s possible to equal or surpass the total habitable volume of the entire International Space Station, in a single launch.”
The test article once again included two four-foot by four-foot blanking plates – metallic structures inserted into the softgoods shell to emulate a future design component, such as a window, robotic arm or antenna attachment point. They were 50 pounds lighter than the ones used in the first full-scale test and designed to accommodate larger windows.
In the ever-evolving landscape of space exploration and commercialization, Sierra Space’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE®) technology stands as a pioneering concept that will reshape how humans live and work in space. LIFE launches on a conventional rocket and inflates on orbit. The first LIFE product in the roadmap is a large, three-story structure that is 27 feet in diameter. It can comfortably sleep four astronauts, with additional room for science experiments, exercise equipment, a medical center and Astro Garden® system, which can grow fresh produce for astronauts on long-duration space missions. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)
25 Jul 24. Space Force missile warning competition robust despite RTX exit. The Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking program is part of the Space Force’s plan to strengthen its on-orbit missile defense capabilities. (RTX)
After canceling its contract with RTX to build three missile tracking satellites, cutting its existing contractor pool from three companies to two, the Space Force is confident it can retain competition on the program moving forward.
The service made the decision in June to remove RTX, formerly Raytheon, from its Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking program due to underperformance from the contractor and concerns about schedule risk. Breaking Defense reported at the time that the Space Force was worried about satellite design challenges and the potential for a future launch delay.
RTX’s contract was worth up to $727m to build three satellites as part of the program’s first phase. The choice to pull the plug on that deal leaves the Space Force with just two companies — Millennium Space Systems and L3Harris — to build out its missile tracking capability in medium Earth orbit, located between 1,200 and 22,000 miles above sea level.
Col. Rob Davis, who oversees space sensing programs within Space Systems Command — the Space Force’s acquisition hub — said cutting RTX from the program was a “tough choice,” but a necessary one. Speaking during a July 25 National Security Space Association event, he said even with a reduced field, competition for future program iterations is strong.
“There’s no shortage of competition in the market,” Davis said.
The Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking program’s medium Earth orbit, or MEO, satellites are just one piece of the Space Force’s plan to bolster its missile-warning and -tracking capabilities against increasing threats from China and Russia.
Today, the Defense Department’s space-based missile warning constellation is made up of a handful of large satellites that mostly reside in geosynchronous orbit, about 22,000 miles away. Their large size and small numbers make them vulnerable to attack — and their sensors and positioning make it harder for them to track advanced weapons like hypersonic missiles.
For those reasons, the service is in the midst of a multiyear, multibillion-dollar effort to change the makeup of its missile tracking architecture, launching smaller, cheaper satellites to lower orbits, like MEO, allowing it to observe large areas without requiring the same level of complexity from sensors positioned farther from the planet.
Because the satellites are less expensive, they’ll have a shorter life on orbit and the service plans to field new batches, which it calls epochs, every three years.
The plan to refresh its missile warning satellite technology on a regular cadence, which mirrors a similar strategy from the Space Development Agency to launch missile tracking spacecraft into low Earth orbit, requires a strong industrial base. The Space Force’s strategy is to continuously stage competition for new companies to enter its supplier pool.
The first MEO spacecraft are slated to launch in 2026, and the Space Force expects to have four satellites on orbit by 2028.
Davis noted that as the service prepares to issue a solicitation for its next epoch of MEO satellites later this month or in early August, it’s had a good response from companies.
In the meantime, the Space Force is working to mitigate the impact of the RTX contract cancellation, Davis said, and is exploring options to reallocate epoch 1 funds to keep the effort on schedule.
Millennium, a Boeing subsidiary, is on contract to deliver six satellites through a $412m contract awarded in 2021. The service tapped L3Harris in June 2023 under a $29 million contract to develop a prototype for the program. The contract included options to buy up to three satellites for epoch 1.
Davis would not confirm whether the service plans to buy more satellites from either vendor to make up for the three that RTX was slated to provide.
“We are pivoting there, and we’re currently evaluating different options to consider as to how to utilize these resources we had previously planned to spend on development of the one vendor,” he said. “We’re looking at how do we make sure that we continue to pace the program and get that initial warfighting capability, that missile tracking capability the nation doesn’t have today — how do we get that out there as quickly as possible?” (Source: Defense News)
26 Jul 24. Gilmour Space to target commercial and defence customers with hypersonic flight test service. As Gilmour Space Technologies gears up for its first orbital take-off in December, the Gold Coast-based launch services company has today announced a new suborbital flight test service aimed at commercial and defence customers that require hypersonic speeds.
Gilmour’s Hyper Flight service, set to launch in 2025 from a few potential sites, leverages the company’s orbital launch vehicle technology and is tailored to speeds above Mach 5, or more than five times the speed of sound.
“We’ve witnessed a surge in the research and development of hypersonic vehicles, materials, and other related technologies in recent years, especially since AUKUS (a trilateral security partnership involving Australia, the UK and US),” says Gilmour Space’s director of launch vehicles and satellites, David Doyle.
“However, as many of these ideas progress from concept to prototyping and testing, we’re also seeing a growing bottleneck in high-speed flight test capabilities, beyond what ground-based shock tunnel testing and simulations can offer.”
Doyle notes that while wind tunnel tests that offer hypersonic flow for 200 to 300 milliseconds are excellent for early-stage testing of materials and geometries with scaled-down models, a significant challenge remains in scaling these technologies to full-size applications.
“Our new HyPeRsonic FLight Test (HPRFLT or Hyper Flight) service will help to bridge that gap by providing a real-life environment for researchers and companies to test, demonstrate, and advance their innovations to higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) in Australia,” he says.
“This is a sovereign, Australian solution for a low-cost, rapid turnkey, hypersonic testbed that will be essential for translating early-stage research into high TRL technologies and platforms that can be used by the Australian Defence Force and our allies.”
Founded by brothers Adam and James Gilmour, the company successfully raised $55 million in a Series D round earlier this year, taking its total capital raised to date to approximately $143 million with a valuation in early 2024 of $605 million.
The group’s ambitions to send a rocket into space received a boost in March after Gilmour was granted Australia’s first orbital launch facility licence under the Space (Launches & Returns) Act 2018, with a launch planned later this year from its Bowen Orbital Spaceport.
(Source: News Now/https://www.businessnewsaustralia.com/)
24 Jul 24. Sweden angles to fill a void in NATO’s space plans. Sweden is looking to establish itself as a key player in the international space domain by virtue of its northern geostrategic position and by ramping up research and development capabilities.
Earlier this month, the Swedish government adopted the country’s first-ever defense and security space strategy, which seeks to make Stockholm a space hub for allies.
“We might be the new kids on the block in NATO, but we have been doing space research for several decades in Sweden – we’ve [now] asked what void can we fill in the alliance in the space domain,” Col. Ella Carlsson, Sweden’s space chief, told reporters here.
Northern Sweden is home to the Esrange Space Center (ESP), the first European mainland orbital spaceport. The center has in part served as a launching pad for sounding rockets and has carried out research and testing of rocket engines and fuels.
In May, the Swedish Space Corporation announced that it signed an agreement with South Korean rocket company Perigee Aerospace to begin jointly launching satellites from the Arctic site in 2025.
According to a Perigee press release, the company’s Blue Whale 1 micro-launcher will be the “first-ever orbital rocket” set off from Esrange. While the spaceport has previously focused its satellite launch capabilities on civilian purposes, its chief executive Charlotta Sund recently said that the installation will likely be utilized for military launches in the future.
Another key pillar of the Swedish space strategy will be to create a portfolio of space-related capabilities and services in line with the country’s “total defense and crisis preparedness” concept.
Carlsson noted that last year the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration acquired Smart-L long-range radars from Thales, which allows the military to detect threats at a range of up to 2,000 kilometers according to the vendor’s website.
“We can use space as part of the solution to find, detect and hit targets or threats with partners,” she said. She added that in Sweden’s quest for new sensors, the country is also cooperating with the Netherlands, which also has the Smart-L radar, to assess further use cases.
The Swedish Air Force additionally signed a Space Situational Awareness sharing agreement with the U.S. Space Command in 2022, with the Scandinavian country most recently participating in the U.S-led Global Sentinel space exercise in February. (Source: Defense News)
23 Jul 24. UniSA opens game-changing 3D printing facility.
The University of South Australia has formally opened a new 3D printing facility that can produce titanium and nickel alloys crucial to space technology.
The site – located at VPG Innovation’s HQ in Camden Park, Adelaide – was unveiled by the state’s Deputy Premier, Susan Close, and funded by the iLAuNCH research collaboration.
“As we transition from resource-intensive manufacturing to more research-driven and energy-efficient processes, we will produce more high-value products,” said Close.
“This 3D printing technology makes it possible to rapidly manufacture custom-made parts and other space infrastructure that can save businesses time and cost.”
Additive manufacturing, better known as 3D printing, is the process of creating an object by building it one layer at a time, as opposed to traditional methods of cutting away a solid block of material.
It’s increasingly being used by the space industry to create new types of materials that can withstand the rigours of space.
The Advanced Manufacturing facility was also significantly the first-ever project greenlit by iLAuNCH and will pave the way for future innovations.
“The technology behind this new endeavour will use additive manufacturing through electron beam melting (EBM) of metals,” said iLAuNCH last year.
“The EBM technique has the huge advantage that almost all of the energy put into creating the electron beam goes into melting the metallic dust. This is extremely important as the dust that we are talking about is high-temperature metals such as titanium and nickel, which melt at very high temperatures or can become brittle.
“The EBM process takes place in a vacuum, allowing for a high temperature in a non-oxygenated environment, which relieves internal stresses and results in more resilient, flexible parts.
“The design freedoms allowed by additive manufacturing methods such as 3D printing provide designers of space objects with immense opportunities to optimise parts for performance by removing the limitations imposed by traditional manufacturing methods.”
The $180 m iLAuNCH trailblazer is a partnership between academic institutions and more than 20 industry partners that aims to accelerate the development of the space manufacturing sector.
Since its inception in 2022, it has already helped scores of projects.
Space Connect reported earlier this month, for example, how iLAuNCH would develop an Earth observation camera that uses shortwave infrared technology and AI to peer through clouds.
The “multi-sensor camera” is being developed by Leonardo, Spiral Blue, Nominal Systems, and ANU and will be used for disaster operations, land management, and defence.
“This partnership will bring first mover advantage to Australian industry and ANU, which is set to deliver a commercially viable product for future satellites,” said iLAuNCH Trailblazer executive director Darin Lovett.
(Source: Space Connect)
25 Jul 24. SmartSat announces New Zealand collaborations. Australia’s SmartSat CRC research collaboration has revealed the first four projects to be backed by its new partnership with the New Zealand government.
The winning initiatives, listed in full at the bottom of this article, include a plan to verify a satellite that measures methane from space and an initiative to enhance the real-time surveillance of greenhouse gases.
Funded by the federal government, SmartSat CRC is a collaboration between universities and research organisations that partner with industry.
Originally limited to Australian firms, in January it expanded its scope to work with Kiwi organisations on projects including Earth observation, situational awareness, and optical communications to support space exploration.
The deal came alongside a commitment from the New Zealand government to support projects with NZ$6m.
Dr Carl Seubert, chief research officer of SmartSat CRC, said, “We’re excited to be driving international research collaboration, and bringing Australian and New Zealand research organisations together to tackle significant issues through innovative space R&D.
“Initiatives such as this are essential to foster the development of space technology and amplify its impact to solve environmental, economic, and social challenges on Earth.”
SmartSat and New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) said they are inviting proposals for collaborative six-month feasibility studies with up to AUD $100,000 for Australia-based research activities, or up to NZD $100,000 for New Zealand-based research activities.
“This funding opportunity aims to harness complementary resources and expertise to develop innovative research and development projects in the area of Earth Observation that will drive the growth of the space industry in both countries,” said SmartSat.
“Open to public and private Australian and New Zealand research organisations, projects should align with industry and end-user needs, addressing major environmental, economic, and social challenges. For more information and to submit proposals, please visit the SmartSat CRC website.
“Further information can be found on the MBIE website.”
Verifying MethaneSat livestock methane emission estimates in New Zealand and Australia using ground and airborne observations
University of New South Wales, National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), University of Wollongong
This project aims to utilise ground and airborne observations to verify MethaneSat’s livestock methane emission estimates in New Zealand and Australia. This project aims to improve real-time monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions and provide valuable data for carbon accounting and emission reduction strategies.
A Feasibility Study into the Governance and Management of a Network of Free Space Optical Communication Nodes Across Australia and New Zealand
University of South Australia, University of Auckland
To explore the governance and management of a network of free space optical communication nodes across Australia and New Zealand. This study will address the technical and operational challenges of Earth-to-space optical communications.
Supporting the SatPing initiative with Observation, Modelling, and Hardware Development
Curtin University, Nova Systems, University of Auckland
To develop observation modelling and hardware for the SatPing initiative, which aims to enhance space situational awareness by improving the tracking of objects in Earth’s orbit.
Monitoring the Southern Indo-Pacific from Space – The Takahē Mission
SmartSat CRC, Restore Lab
To align and develop a joint AUS-NZ mission concept focusing on maritime domain awareness and the advancement of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technologies for environmental and security monitoring. (Source: Space Connect)
23 Jul 24. Construction of Iran’s first satellite constellation to begin this year. The construction phase for Iran’s inaugural telecommunications constellation will begin later this year, Hossein Salariyeh, head of the Iranian Space Agency, announced in early July.
Known as the ‘General Soleimani Satellite System’ after the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC)-Quds Force commander, the constellation is intended as a dual-use narrowband telecommunication system for government users and the private sector.
Due to launch into low Earth orbit (LEO) in the next year or so, the constellation is being developed by a consortium of private and public firms, although details regarding exactly who are not public.
In a previous discussion in October 2023 Salariyeh outlined that the constellation would initially provide narrowband internet of things (IoT) services, meaning it will mostly collect data from sensors on the ground and transmit it to a reference station. The number of satellites will increase in the years to follow, he added.
The ‘General Soleimani Satellite System’ is part of Iran’s ongoing 10-year space programme, implemented in January 2023, which aims to turn the country into a regional space power. Roscosmos, Russia’s state-owned space corporation, is supporting Iran, offering assistance with infrastructure, launchers, remote sensing, telecommunications, and navigation. (Source: Janes)
23 Jul 24. Plans unveiled for stronger European Space Agency presence in UK and space skills training.
A plan to build on the success of the European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT), which employs more than 100 people in Harwell, has been launched today by the UK and European space agencies.
The joint plan, unveiled during the Farnborough International Airshow, includes strengthening work on the centre’s 5G/6G hub with a focus on satellite telecommunications and the wider applications of satellite services, which already support around £360 bn of UK GDP.
The space agencies will explore the potential for a space quantum technologies laboratory and the further development of activities related to in-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing – vital for improving sustainability, prolonging the lifetime of satellites in orbit, and delivering new services to businesses and citizens.
The UK Space Agency has also announced five new projects, worth £2.1 m, to help tackle key skills gaps identified by the UK space industry. The funding will boost the availability of training programmes, courses and other learning interventions that can break down barriers to opportunities within this fast-growing, high-tech sector.
The projects will be led by the universities of Edinburgh, Leicester and Portsmouth, the Royal Institute of Navigation, and Plastron Training, a specialist provider of training services focused on safety in the commercial space sector.
UK Space Agency CEO Dr Paul Bate said: “As a founding member of the European Space Agency, UK scientists and engineers contribute to global scientific and commercial space endeavors, furthering human knowledge and bringing the benefits of space technologies to citizens on Earth.
Together with ESA, we believe there is vast potential to build on the success of the ECSAT facility in Harwell, to support even more businesses, accelerate the development of new technologies and take advantage of the UK’s wider strengths in science and innovation.
As space is a growing industry, we are also taking concrete steps to improve the availability of dedicated training programmes, which will help address skills gaps identified by the sector.”
ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher said: “ECSAT is ESA’s home in the UK and a vital facility for Europe’s overall space ambitions. Together with the UK Space Agency we want to build on ECSAT’s leadership role in commercial space applications and telecommunications, push forward new initiatives in high-growth areas, deliver better services to all European citizens, and grow our UK workforce to 200 people by 2030. I’ve enjoyed spending time at Farnborough this week and meeting with so many of our current, and potential future, partners who we will work with to make this shared vision a reality.”
ECSAT
ESA’s European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) at Harwell is the headquarters of ESA’s Directorate of Connectivity and Secure Communications. It also supports work on commercialisation, Earth observation, human and robotic exploration and space technology. It is the home of ESA’s Moonlight programme, the flagship 5G/6G hub and the ESA Climate Office. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
22 Jul 24. Ongoing Russian tracking: Luch-2’s 20km Approach to Telecommunication Satellites. Russian satellite Luch-2 is still closely approaching telecommunication satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) at an altitude of 35,780 km. Early in July, Aldoria’s tracking system detected Luch-2 closely and slowly approaching a Norwegian commercial satellite, maintaining a distance of approximately 80 km. As of today, recent manoeuvres have reduced this distance to only 20 km, raising significant concerns about the Russian satellite’s intentions.
Aldoria had already detected suspicious behavior from Luch-2 back in April and has been extremely vigilant in monitoring the satellite’s pattern of life since then. This ongoing surveillance has been crucial in tracking Luch-2’s movements and understanding its intentions.
The images taken from Aldoria’s optical observation station illustrate the proximity of Luch-2 to essential telecommunication satellites, including 3 satellites from a Norwegian commercial satellite operator and INTELSAT 1002 (up to bottom order). These satellites all provide a range of telecommunication services, including broadcasting, broadband, and data communications across multiple regions. These satellites are critical for maintaining continuous communication services for public and private sectors. This close approach, from a satellite with undefined intentions, poses a potential risk to these critical assets, emphasizing the importance of space domain awareness (SDA).
“In this increasingly complex space environment, characterised by an increasing number of satellites, diverse actors, and heightened activity, space domain awareness (SDA) is essential for detecting anomalies, and safeguarding critical assets. Aldoria’s ongoing surveillance has been crucial in delivering detailed pattern-of-life analysis. We are continuously expanding and innovating our network of stations to provide the most advanced SDA capabilities, ensuring timely alerts for satellite operators.” Mylène Bosio, VP Marketing & Sales, Aldoria.
With its six observation stations, Aldoria performs multi-orbit tracking, providing extensive surveillance and ensuring that no manoeuvre goes unnoticed. Aldoria remains vigilant, alerting operators to ensure satellite safety.
19 Jul 24. Goonhilly Earth Station Ltd. (“Goonhilly”) has announced it will be organising its services in three dedicated divisions: Commercial Satcom, Defence and Security, and Lunar and Deep Space Communications. The purpose is to put customer needs front and centre. The shift will ensure that Goonhilly’s customers can benefit from more specialised expert support and that the company can accelerate its growth.
Executive Chairman Kenn Herskind will lead the management of the company across all three divisions, and its UK and US sites. Kenn brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the space and communications industries. Previously a Director in shipping giant Maersk, Kenn has served on Goonhilly’s board since 2017 and also serves as Non-Executive Director of satellite manufacturer and solutions provider, GomSpace.
Kenn Herskind, Executive Chairman, Goonhilly: “I’m delighted to be leading the company at this exciting time in its development. As we have expanded, so has our customer base, and we are thrilled to be serving a range of markets with our trusted solutions.”
As part of the restructuring, Goonhilly is also accelerating the development of its services to customers across the Defence and Security sector. Dave Keighley will join the company as the firm’s Managing Director for this segment in September. He brings with him over 25 years of experience within the sector, most recently as the Assistant Head for Space Strategy and Operations within the Ministry of Defence.
Dave Keighley, incoming MD Defence and Security, Goonhilly: “I am excited to lead the development of Goonhilly’s Defence and Security division. Goonhilly’s expertise around Space Domain Awareness and secure satellite communications are becoming well-recognised across the Defence and Security sector. I look forward to working with customers (both new and existing), while improving and expanding our services to meet their evolving needs.”
A further board appointment is Andrew Binding who will serve as Non-Executive Director. Andrew brings experience to the company from his time as a technology development engineer, working across space and communications products. The company will also benefit from Andrew’s more recent experience as a Chartered Financial Planner.
Goonhilly will be exhibiting at Farnborough International Airshow between the 22nd and 26th of July (Stand #4310, Space Zone, Hall 4), where they will be on hand to discuss how their secure and reliable communication services can support customers.
22 Jul 24. £10.9m boost for Scottish space sector. The projects come from the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) – designed to invest in high-potential technologies and drive innovation and growth.
Five projects funded by the UK Space Agency across Scotland have been announced on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow, providing over £10.5m in Scottish investment.
The projects come from the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) – designed to invest in high-potential technologies and drive innovation and growth in the space sector across the UK.
Two Scottish projects will receive £8.5m of the total funding for UK Major Projects. These include funding for a sub-orbital rocket test by HyImpulse (Glasgow) from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland.
A project led by Spire Global (Glasgow) will further develop technology to supply unique weather forecasting data to global numerical weather prediction centres.
Not only will the funding support the growth of UK space businesses and create new jobs, but it will enhance Scotland’s offering of space capabilities and services to international investors and major space players.
An additional three ‘Kick Starter’ projects across Scotland will receive £2.4m between them. These projects are designed to support technologies and applications that are in an earlier stage of development and increase their readiness for use in commercial and scientific endeavours.
These projects include a partnership between University of Strathclyde, UK Atomic Energy Authority and SJE Space, for a feasibility study into whether terrestrial directed energy drilling (plasmas/microwaves) could be adapted for space applications, specifically lunar exploration.
Speaking at the Farnborough International Airshow where he met with a number of Scottish exhibitors, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:
“This is an exciting time for the Scottish space sector as we look forward to the first satellite launch from SaxaVord in Shetland later this year. The burgeoning industry plays a vital role in our economy and employs thousands of people across the country. It was fantastic to meet with some of them here and hear about their pioneering plans which could be a key driver for growth, jobs and investment in Scotland.
“Scotland is a major player in the international space industry and I am delighted the UK Government is continuing to back the sector with £10.9m in funding for these five Scottish projects.”
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said:
“These new projects will help kickstart growth, create more high-quality jobs, protect our planet and preserve the space environment for future generations. They go to the heart of what we want to achieve as a national space agency that supports cutting-edge innovation, spreads opportunity across the UK and delivers the benefits of space back to citizens on Earth.”
Chair of the UKspace trade association, John Hanley, said:
“This investment into the space industry demonstrates the importance of funding through a national programme to unlock innovative collaborations in all parts of the UK. We hope this will further strengthen the sector and build upon the growth we have seen in recent years.”
Project Summaries:
Major Projects
- SHARP – Sustainable Hybrid: Accelerated Rocket Programme
Funding: £4,995,000
This project will set out to conduct a vertical launch of a sounding rocket in the UK with the final goal being the build completion of the second stage of the orbital rocket ready for testing. HyImpulse, in partnership with Cranfield University, Birmingham University and the AVICON Partnership, intends to provide a fully vertically integrated launch service for a low-cost, fast, flexible, and reliable deployment of small satellites to low earth orbits.
- Operational Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder-Satellite (OHMS-Sat)
Funding: £3,524,000
Led by Spire Global in partnership with STAR-Dundee Ltd, the Met Office and RAL Space (UKRI STFC), this project will build on the prior developments of the Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder (HYMS) to move it towards an operational mission to supply weather forecasting data to global numerical weather prediction (NWP) centres and create unique weather products.
Kick Starter Projects
- DIGGER – Drilling and Integrated GigaHertz-Generated Energy Resource for Lunar and Asteroid applications
Funding: £845,000
In partnership with University of Strathclyde, UK Atomic Energy Authority and SJE Space, DIGGER is a feasibility study into whether terrestrial directed energy drilling (plasmas/microwaves) could be adapted for space applications, specifically lunar exploration.
- Direct Detection Receivers for Millimetre Wave Radiometry
Funding: £827,000
Led by UKRI / STFC / RAL Space in partnership with University of Glasgow and Spire Glasgow, the project will develop the critical low noise amplifier and detector technology which will be at the core of the next generation of atmospheric remote sensing instrumentation. This technology will go beyond gathering data for weather prediction, with use cases being developed in emerging fields such as security imaging, and theft prevention.
- TARS-IOD: Flight-ready model for In-Orbit Demonstration of Tomorrow’s Astro-Robotic System
Funding: £804,000
Lodestar Space Ltd. will develop a platform-agnostic modular robotic arm to perform contact dependent dynamic space operations. Intended for flight on Momentus’ Vigoride platform, the partnership also involves Growbotics and the University of Glasgow to equip the UK with sovereign capabilities for inspecting, protecting, and repairing vital assets beyond Earth. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
22 Jul 24. £3m boost for national space programme. More than 20 national space projects have been announced today by DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle, on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow.
From:
National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP). £33m for cutting-edge UK space technology to boost innovation and growth.
The projects, worth £33m, come from the UK Space Agency’s National Space Innovation Programme – designed to invest in high-potential technologies, drive innovation and unlock growth across the UK.
Eight major projects will receive £24m of the total amount. These include funding for a sub-orbital rocket test by HyImpulse (Glasgow) from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland, support for Rolls Royce (Derby) to develop micro reactors to support space exploration, and backing for Cambridge University spin-out SuperSharp to develop and launch a heat-detecting telescope to gather data that can be used to help tackle the climate crisis.
The funding will also support Lunasa (Harwell) to build and test technology to help satellites safely dock with one another, Orbit Fab (Harwell) to develop a solution for satellite refuelling, and Wayland Additive (Huddersfield) to develop an electronic propulsion system.
A project led by Spire Global (Glasgow) will further develop technology to supply unique weather forecasting data to global weather prediction centres, while ETL Systems (Hereford) will advance revolutionary ground equipment that links satellites to 5G and 6G mobile networks, improving connectivity.
DSIT Secretary of State Peter Kyle said: “From combatting climate change to staying connected with loved ones, space technologies play an important role in many aspects of our day to day lives.
But backing the growth of UK space companies is also essential for driving economic growth, boosting productivity, and creating wealth in every community. Our £33m investment in these projects highlights the huge potential of the UK’s space industry, especially as we collaborate with international partners.”
An additional 15 ‘Kick Starter’ projects will receive £9 m between them. These will support technologies and applications that are in an earlier stage of development and increase their readiness for use in commercial and scientific endeavours. The projects cover a wide range of space-related capabilities, from in-orbit servicing and manufacturing, as well as advanced material development and the use of satellite imagery.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, said:
These new projects will help kickstart growth, create more high-quality jobs, protect our planet and preserve the space environment for future generations. They go to the heart of what we want to achieve as a national space agency that supports cutting-edge innovation, spreads opportunity across the UK and delivers the benefits of space back to citizens on Earth.
Chair of the UKspace trade association, John Hanley, said: “This investment into the space industry demonstrates the importance of funding through a national programme to unlock innovative collaborations in all parts of the UK. We hope this will further strengthen the sector, and build upon the growth we have seen in recent years.”
Project Summaries
Major Projects
SHARP (Sustainable Hybrid: Accelerated Rocket Programme): £5m
Led by HyImpulse UK in partnership with Cranfield University, Birmingham University and AVICON Partnership.
This project aims to conduct the vertical launch of a sounding rocket from SaxaVord spaceport in Shetland, with the goal of developing key components contributing to an orbital launch service. HyImpulse intends to provide a fully vertically integrated launch service for a low-cost, fast, flexible, and reliable deployment of small satellites to low Earth and sun synchronous orbits.
An in-orbit demonstration of an unfolding TIR space telescope for climate change mitigation: £5m
Led by Super Sharp Space Systems in partnership with the University of Cambridge.
The project will support the launch of an innovative, unfolding, thermal infrared (TIR) telescope into orbit for Earth Observation. The TIR telescope will collect data to drive positive action towards mitigating climate change.
Space Nuclear Power Micro-Reactor Technology Development and Demonstration: £4.8m
Led by Rolls-Royce Submarines in partnership with Bangor University, University of Oxford and Rolls Royce Bristol.
The project will raise the overall technology readiness level for Space Micro-Reactors, closing the gap to a full system space flight demonstration and the commercialisation of space nuclear power.
OHMS-Sat (Operational Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder-Satellite): £3.5m
Led by Spire Global in partnership with STAR-Dundee, the Met Office and STFC RAL Space.
This project will build on the prior developments of the Hyperspectral Microwave Sounder (HYMS) to accelerate it towards an operational mission to supply weather forecasting data to global numerical weather prediction (NWP) centres and create unique weather products.
Electric Propulsion Innovations for Space and Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing: £2.7m
Led by Wayland Additive in partnership with Mars Space Ltd.
The project aims to adapt Mars Space Ltd (MSL)’s spacecraft electric propulsion technology and apply it to Electron Beam Metal Powder Additive Manufacturing in Wayland Additive Ltd’s Calibur machines. The access to, and spinout of, this technology to terrestrial applications will result in economies of scale for the MSL hollow cathode technology, benefiting both the space and terrestrial sectors.
SPITFIRE (Servicing Propellant Interface Technology For In-orbit Refuelling Effectiveness): £1.3m
Led by Orbit Fab in partnership with MDA Space and Robotics, and the University of Southampton.
The project will develop a full high-pressure interface solution to flight qualification level. This will bring together all the critical elements of refuelling for a UK-developed pressure agnostic interface solution that could be used on all future Orbit Fab refuelling missions in the pipeline.
Proximus Prime: Autonomous vision-based Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) demonstration mission in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) using Small Satellites: £1m
Led by Lúnasa in partnership with Orbit Fab.
Lúnasa intends to co-engineer, integrate and test its autonomous Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) Kit around Orbit Fab’s commercially available satellite docking and refuelling interface. Lúnasa will deploy the RPO Kit into Space and perform a first-of-its kind commercial satellite autonomous close-proximity demonstration between two MicroSats.
IF Lite project – Digital IF for Satellite mobile ground terminals and antennas: £690,000
Led by ETL Systems.
ETL Systems will develop an advancement in satellite ground segment technology, merging Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) including satellites, with terrestrial networks such as 5G and 6G, alongside cloud virtualisation. This will facilitate seamless waveform alterations and accommodate edge devices like satellite terminals.
Kickstarter Projects
SuperMagdrive: £1m
Led by Magdrive in partnership with Orbit Fab and the University of Southampton.
This project will develop and scale up Magdrive’s plasma propulsion system – ‘SuperMagdrive’. The project focuses on development of the power system, ultimately demonstrating the technology with a test fire. Applications of this technology range from rendezvous and proximity operations to in space refuelling operations, contributing to a more sustainable space.
Development of an ultra-high efficiency, low-cost flexible solar blanket and compact, modular roll-out mechanism for in-orbit deployment: £980,000
Led by Lightricity in partnership with AVS Added Value Solutions and University of Leicester.
Lightricity will work with partners to deliver a roll-out, in-orbit deployable flexible solar blanket or sheet for application in powering satellite payloads and potentially satellite electric propulsion, particularly suitable for small to medium satellites.
DIGGER (Drilling and Integrated GigaHertz-Generated Energy Resource) for Lunar and Asteroid applications: £850,000
Led by STFC in partnership with University of Strathclyde, UK Atomic Energy Authority and SJE Space.
DIGGER is a feasibility study into whether terrestrial directed energy drilling (plasmas/microwaves) could be adapted for space applications, specifically lunar exploration.
Direct Detection Receivers for Millimetre Wave Radiometry: £830,000
Led by STFC RAL Space in partnership with University of Glasgow and Spire Global.
The project will develop critical low noise amplifier and detector technology which will be at the core of the next generation of atmospheric remote sensing instrumentation. Applications extend beyond gathering data for weather prediction, with use cases being developed in emerging fields of millimetre wave non-destructive testing, short pulse laser and synchrotron diagnostics, security imaging, and theft prevention.
TARS-IOD: Flight-ready model for In-Orbit Demonstration of Tomorrow’s Astro-Robotic System: £800,000
Led by Lodestar Space in partnership with Momentus Space, Growbotics and University of Glasgow.
Lodestar Space will develop a platform-agnostic modular robotic arm to perform contact dependent dynamic space operations. Intended for flight on Momentus’ Vigoride platform, the partnership also involves Growbotics and the University of Glasgow to equip the UK with sovereign capabilities for inspecting, protecting, and repairing vital assets beyond Earth.
SCOPE (Solar Coronagraph for OPErations): Development and testing towards an environmentally-qualified model: £770,000
Led by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
A project continuing the development of the SCOPE coronagraph, UKRI aims to image solar Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), enhancing our ability to predict CME arrival and thereby space weather, progressing towards an environmentally-qualified instrument.
REALM (Rapid information extraction for environmental remote sensing on board spacecraft through application of light Machine Learning models in payload computing systems): £690,000
Led by University of Leicester.
The project will develop and demonstrate streamlined machine learning algorithms capable of complying with spacecraft power and computing performance requirements using drones. The project addresses the need for real-time and near real-time operation of various Earth observation applications ranging from wildfire detection to transport congestion monitoring.
Advanced Microscopy and Thermal Control Upgrades to the SpaceLab Microgravity Research System: £560,000
Led by Frontier Space Technologies, in partnership with Cranfield University.
Frontier Space Technologies Ltd and Cranfield University will develop their SpaceLab, capable of conducting experiments in microgravity environments. Specific upgrades will significantly enhance capability for drug discovery and in orbit manufacture of high value products. Applications include pharmaceuticals, biosciences and material science.
Multifunctional lightweight superstrates for high performance space PV (photovoltaics): £480,000
Led by Loughborough University in partnership with the University of Cambridge.
The project will develop a novel space photovoltaic device, enabling low cost, highly resilient solar power systems which meet the complex demands of next generation space applications.
FIBSTAR (FIBre STeered SpAce Reflective mirrors): £450,000
Led by iCOMAT in partnership with Cranfield University
The project will develop and prototype lightweight carbon fibre mirrors using novel fibre steering technology. The primary aims are to develop a simulation design framework, then produce a representative demo article to validate benefits of fibre-steering.
ABEP (Air Breathing Electric Propulsion) Intake End-To-End Simulation & Design: £390,000
Led by Stellar Advanced Concepts in partnership with the University of Manchester.
The project will work on simulating an Air Breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP) system to unlock new capabilities in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO).
Transmitter for D-band MIMO enabled by traveling wave tubes for ultra-throughput satellites: £390,000
Led by Lancaster University
Lancaster University will develop a satellite transmitter enabling ultra-capacity satellite links at D-band (134 – 141 GHz) with a novel multiple antenna technique, or MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) powered by Travelling Wave Tubes (TWTs).
CLASP (Capture of Large Spacecraft): £310,000
Led by ClearSpace Today in partnership with the Satellite Applications Catapult.
The project will develop a versatile capture mechanism for large unprepared satellites. The development involves analysing potential clients and identifying safe capture locations, creating a simulation tool for studying capture scenarios and trialling a robotics system based on the preliminary design of the capture mechanism.
Biocomputer System for Space Biomanufacturing: £300,000
Led by BiologIC Technologies in partnership with Axiom Space.
The project will optimise BiologIC Technologies’ biomanufacturing system, built using world-leading biocomputer technology, to withstand space launch, operate in microgravity and ensure compatibility with space infrastructure.
SOARS (Sewage) Outfall Assessment by Remote Sensing (SOARS): £250,000
Led by HR Wallingford.
The project will test the feasibility of two sets of novel Earth Observation innovations, addressing the strategic priority of sewage spills. SOARS will apply oil spill identification techniques to sewage spills and employ novel machine learning techniques to assess their impact.
The project funding figures above have been rounded and represent the funding provided by the UK Space Agency, excluding additional contributions by the applicants and project partners.
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
20 Jul 24. Rocket Lab delays launch of ‘A Sky Full Of SARs’ per Capella’s request. Artistic rendition of the Acade-3 SAR smallsat on-orbit, courtesy of Capella Space.
Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced that Rocket Lab’s next Electron launch will move to a later date at the request of mission partner Capella Space so that they can complete additional testing for their mission.
With rockets at the ready, we’ll be moving to our next mission in the manifest with Synspective, now flying next on Electron within the next few weeks.
This is Electron’s tailored launch service at its best, demonstrating the value and market demand for dedicated small launch. Flying dedicated means customers have flexibility over their launch schedule so that their satellites aren’t left behind if they miss a launch deadline, like on traditional rideshare missions.
Rocket Lab sets July 20 launch window for next Capella Space Mission from Launch Complex 1
18 Jul 24. Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced it has set the launch window for its 51st Electron launch, a dedicated mission for American space tech company Capella Space (“Capella”).
The ‘A Sky Full Of SARs’ mission is scheduled to launch during a 14-day window that opens on July 21 NZST / July 20 UTC from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula. The mission will deploy Capella’s Acadia-3 SAR satellite, a synthetic aperture radar satellite for Earth imagery and observation, to a mid-inclination 615km circular orbit to add to Capella’s existing SAR satellite constellation in low Earth orbit.
The mission will be Rocket Lab’s fifth launch for Capella to build out the company’s Earth-imaging constellation. In addition to the launch service, Rocket Lab is providing Capella Space with a custom extended fairing for the Acadia-3 satellite on Electron and a separation system produced by Rocket Lab. Providing a tailored launch option along with the component for the safe and reliable deployment of Capella’s satellites on orbit, Rocket Lab’s dedicated launch service helps to streamline operations for Capella Space and enable them to focus more closely on their satellite’s capabilities and building out their constellation.
Rocket Lab Electron ‘Still Testing’ leaves the pad at LC-1
“It’s great to be heading back to the pad for Capella once again,” says Rocket Lab Founder and CEO, Peter Beck. “The team is focused on and dedicated to delivering this latest SAR satellite to orbit to build out Capella’s constellation, and we’re honored by their continued trust in Rocket Lab and Electron to help support their overarching mission.”
“We’re looking forward to working with Rocket Lab again in order to continue expanding Capella’s constellation with our industry-leading, next-generation satellite technology,” says Capella Space CEO Frank Backes. “It’s with partners like Rocket Lab that we’re able to serve the mission requirements of our customers today with high-resolution, high-quality SAR imagery, building a fully-automated and reliable constellation to meet the needs of customers for tomorrow.”
Capella is an American space tech company with data and satellite solutions for government and commercial applications. Capella’s high-quality, high-resolution SAR imagery penetrates all weather conditions and captures clear imagery 24/7, day and night, anywhere on Earth, delivered through a fully-automated ordering and delivery platform. Capella’s existing SAR capabilities includes long-dwell imaging and extended duty-cycle — which results in more images collected per orbit than any other SAR systems. Acadia will augment Capella’s existing constellation with increased bandwidth and power, faster downlink speeds, and reduced latency.
This upcoming mission for Capella will be Rocket Lab’s ninth mission for 2024 and 51st Electron launch overall.
Rocket Lab’s launch window for the next Capella Space Mission
The ‘A Sky Full Of SARs’ mission is scheduled to launch during a 14-day window that opens on July 21 NZST / July 20 UTC from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula. The mission will deploy Capella’s Acadia-3 SAR satellite, a synthetic aperture radar satellite for Earth imagery and observation, to a mid-inclination 615km circular orbit to add to Capella’s existing SAR satellite constellation in low Earth orbit. (Source: Satnews