22 Aug 24. Neumann’s electric propulsion system successfully tested.
Neumann Space has successfully completed the first tests in orbit of its electric propulsion system.
The SA-based company’s ‘Neumann Drive’ is attached to the University of Melbourne’s SpIRIT nanosatellite, which blasted off last December.
This month, SpIRIT was able to charge the device’s power capacitors using its solar panels and batteries.
It also conducted several test firings, which significantly demonstrated that Molybdenum could be used as a solid metallic propellant.
Neumann has previously said its electric technology is simpler than traditional chemical propulsion methods and allows for the potential for spacecraft to be effectively refuelled and deorbited easier. This includes harnessing space debris for fuel.
“The SpIRIT nanosatellite has been operating in orbit approximately 500km above Earth since its launch on 1 December 2023, during which time the consortium has worked to perform numerous diagnostic tests to validate the system’s electronics and, in doing so, confirm the resilience of the Neumann Drive to the challenging launch and orbital environments,” said Neumann Space.
“A comprehensive Neumann Drive testing campaign will continue for the remaining of the two-year SpIRIT mission, with the goal of establishing for the first time the long-term characterisation of the system in orbit.”
Enrico Palermo, head of the Australian Space Agency, said, “The Agency congratulates Neumann Space and the SpIRIT team on this milestone, and we’re proud that our investment in this science mission continues to boost Australia’s space heritage.”
SpIRIT, meanwhile, aims to search for gamma rays. The 11.5-kilogram device deploys solar panels and thermal radiators to search for the elusive phenomenon created when stars die or collide.
The project – known in full as the Space Industry Responsive Intelligent Thermal nanosatellite – is a unique collaboration with the Italian Space Agency, which has created the scientific instruments on board.
Four years in the making, its solar panels power the “selfie stick” camera, guidance systems, and a pioneering electric propulsion system created by Neumann Space.
It’s designed to fly in low-Earth orbit for two years in a polar (or sun-synchronous) orbit, travelling “vertically” from north to south but positioned so it always faces the sun at a similar angle.
When its mission is complete, SpIRIT will be placed in a safe mode and burn up on re-entry into the atmosphere.
The project is a significant moment for the local industry, given it’s also a collaboration between Inovor Technologies, Neumann Space, Sitael Australia, and Nova Systems. The Australian Space Agency supported the project with almost $7m in grants.
22 Aug 24. European Space Agency selects CGI to implement pilot study for European Civil Security from Space hub network. CGI (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB), one of the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world, has been awarded a study by the European Space Agency (ESA) to better define the needs and specifications of a suite of Civil Security from Space (CSS) Hubs. CSS aims to bring together – as part of a European network – a suite of space technologies, such as communication, Earth Observation (EO) and navigation, within an “integrated system” delivering real-time actionable information to first responders during crises. Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, Heinrich Hertz Institute (HHI) is also part of the team, augmenting CGI’s expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI), a key tool needed to integrate big data from different sources and enable fast predictions.
A key focus of the study will be on a new generation of a “digital marketplace” enabling rapid access to integrated satcom and EO services. The aim is to enable users – for example, first responders and crisis centers – to receive actionable and trustworthy space-based solutions in a timely and secure manner.
By fostering such “integrated system”, ESA intends to use CGI’s expertise in disaster management and GOVSATCOM services to enable new solutions and market opportunities supporting crisis and disaster management.
Integration of AI technologies will be one of this project’s most important components. Two use cases will be studied as examples: one on detecting areas afflicted by fires and the other on modelling precipitation runoff. CGI is responsible for the fire detection use case, while HHI will contribute the use case on modelling precipitation runoff.
“The goal of the study is to provide seamless access to state-of-the-art satellite communication and earth observation services and enable deployed teams to quickly obtain important information – whenever and wherever it is needed,” explains Stephane Pirio, ESA Pooling and sharing development manager. “Within the scope of this study, a single interface prototype platform will be prototyped by merging different space-related disciplines – telecommunications and earth observation. This new approach will revolutionize the work of players in the realm of civilian security while enabling them to acquire, monitor, and administer a variety of services.”
CGI is responsible for strategically planning the study with the participation of various interest groups, supported by HHI. Together with HHI, CGI will develop a roadmap for the combined Satcom and EO marketplace and design a prototype that integrates the CGI Sense360 IP solution. CGI’s solution provides complete situational images while drawing on data from a wide variety of sources including satellites, drones, maps, data on infrastructure, geodata, weather and environmental data, online databases, blogs, and social media. The prototype will capitalize on a centralized ‘pooling and sharing’ system for secure satellite communication services, previously developed by CGI with support of ESA, as a key building block of the GOVSATCOM hub.
“With CGI Sense360, we have the technical expertise in building earth observation services and developing corresponding platforms for data analysis. Drawing upon our experience in supporting clients globally with natural disaster planning and recovery programs, we will develop the feasibility study for European Civil Security stakeholders and support in delivering more efficient and effective ways to organize rescue operations during humanitarian crises,” said Ulli Leibnitz, Senior Vice President Consulting Services and Head of the Space Division in Germany. “Together with HHI, we are well positioned to recruit and integrate a variety of stakeholders for defining standards that will then enable, for the first time, the comprehensive use of earth observation and satellite communication technologies for civil security.”
21 Aug 24. Reliant on Starlink, Army eager for more SATCOM constellation options. The Army is leaning heavily on SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network for advanced command and control, but service officials say they want to keep their options open as new commercial megaconstellations materialize.
Mark Kitz, the Army’s program executive officer for tactical command, control and communications, said Wednesday that the importance of proliferated low Earth orbit satellite networks was on display at the service’s most recent Project Convergence Capstone event, where the Army experiments with multi-domain connectivity concepts.
“I don’t think you could take 10 steps without tripping over a Starshield terminal,” Kitz said at AFCEA’s TechNet conference in Augusta, Georgia. “I would say the Army is very committed to pLEO and Starshield.”
Starshield is SpaceX’s military business unit, which provides access to the company’s Starlink constellation, a fleet of more than 6,000 satellites in LEO, about 1,200 miles above Earth’s surface. The growing network of spacecraft provides internet service for private consumers as well as militaries around the world.
The company has expanded its military space footprint in recent years, providing launch services through its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets and receiving its first military satellite production contract in 2021 from the Space Development Agency.
The Ukrainian military has relied heavily on Starlink in its war with Russia, and last year the U.S. Space Force awarded the company a contract for the satellite service. Starshield is also building a classified constellation of hundreds of spy satellites for the National Reconnaissance Office, Reuters reported earlier this year.
While Starlink is the dominant player providing space-based communications services, several other companies have plans to join them. Amazon is designing a 3,000-satellite network called Project Kuiper, with its first operational spacecraft slated to launch late this year. U.K.-based OneWeb and Luxembourg’s Intelsat are also developing large SATCOM constellations with slightly different market focuses than SpaceX.
Speaking with Kitz at TechNet, Director of the Army’s Network Cross-Functional Team Maj. Gen. Patrick Ellis said that as these constellations come online, the Army wants to ensure its units have access to multiple connectivity options.
“What we’re really looking for is that diversification of transport, and that is one of the tools we’re looking to give commanders,” Ellis said.
One way the Army is looking to give commanders access to more satellite services is through its Next-Generation Tactical Terminal. The program is designing a capability to leverage constellations based in multiple orbits and frequency bands through a single terminal by building an agnostic radio frequency receiver.
“We want to get out of bringing a new antenna every time we want to change providers,” Kitz said. “If a unit deploys and they want to leverage a Ka-band Kuiper, they have that RF front end. If they want to be leveraging Starshield, we swap modems and we go.” (Source: Defense News)
19 Aug 24. Sceye, an aerospace company with a background in material science and manufacturer of High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS), announced today that it completed a full diurnal flight in the stratosphere while staying over an area of operation. This is a critical milestone towards long-duration flights of months or years by using of solar power through daylight hours, and battery capacity enabling overnight flight through solar recharge the next morning. The HAPS launched at 7:36 AM MST on August 15th from the company’s New Mexico facility and landed at 12:21 PM MST the following day after the flight test points were completed.
“This is a significant milestone for the Sceye team, towards opening up vast opportunities in the stratosphere, building an entirely new layer of infrastructure between drones and satellites,” said Sceye CEO and Founder, Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen. The ability to stay in the stratosphere for long durations over an area of operation offers a unique vantage point for detecting climate disasters in real time like wildfires and methane leaks, as well as connectivity to the bns of unconnected which conventional infrastructures cannot serve.
Today’s launch furthered all key stratospheric objectives of the Sceye 2024 test program, including demonstrating diurnal flight, controlled relocation, and the ability to stay over an area of operation. The completion of these objectives will allow Sceye to initiate commercial use cases.
“The flight was an important demonstration of our platform’s performance and resilience. I’m looking forward to seeing the growth and capabilities scale with each and every flight that follows,” said Stephanie Luongo, Sceye Chief of Mission Operations.
Sceye has completed twenty test flights, with two additional test flights planned for 2024, further maturing the platform in preparation for commercialization.
The flight carried an advanced payload suite consisting of instruments for addressing some of humanity’s most critical issues : stereo-optical cameras, for creating precise elevation models used to understand disasters such as floodings and earthquakes and how to mitigate them; infrared cameras to allow for prediction and detection of wildfires and to detect methane leaks in real time, representing two significant sources of global warming. The payload also included synthetic aperture radar that allows the platform to see through clouds and observe the planet’s most vital systems in any weather and time of day.
About Sceye
Sceye is an aerospace company founded in 2014 to unleash the possibilities in the stratosphere by uplifting and connecting all people and protecting our planet. The company is leading the industry of High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) to provide universal and equitable connectivity, improve climate change monitoring, natural resource stewardship, wildfire detection and better detect and contain disasters before they spiral out of control. (Source: PR Newswire)
19 Aug 24. Umbra, a vertically integrated space technology company operating the world’s highest resolution commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, today announced that it has successfully launched a new pair of SAR satellites, Umbra-09 and Umbra-10, aboard the Transporter-11 Rideshare mission with SpaceX on August 16, 2024.
Umbra launched its first mission that included two-satellite tandem operations, Umbra-07 and Umbra-08, aboard the Transporter-9 mission on November 9, 2023. Umbra will continue deploying its constellation to satisfy global commercial demand for high-resolution, densely spaced monostatic and multistatic imagery.
“Umbra already delivers the largest volume of high-resolution SAR imagery in the concentrated areas of highest demand,” said Todd Master, Chief Operating Officer of Umbra. “These additional satellites will unlock even more imagery over high-demand areas for our customers, and our paired operations offer the ability to generate incredible data products uniquely enabled by Umbra.”
Thanks to their unique satellite design and advanced mission scheduling technology, Umbra satellites capture seven times more images over high-demand areas and in higher resolution than any commercial competitor.
Umbra has won several contracts with government and commercial organizations like Maxar, the largest commercial satellite imagery vendor in the U.S. Umbra data provides timely insights and actionable intelligence when and where it’s needed most.
Umbra recently expanded its business by launching a Mission Solutions line, leveraging its vertical integration and remote sensing expertise to develop custom satellite solutions for governments and large multinational corporations.
Since its establishment in 2015, Umbra has become a leader in remote sensing. Umbra’s innovative SAR imaging and patented satellite technology solutions offer all-weather, day-and-night monitoring, setting new standards for reliability, precision, and intelligence gathering.
ABOUT UMBRA
Umbra is a vertically integrated space technology company providing satellite technology solutions and intelligence data as a service to commercial and government customers. Our cutting-edge products help customers solve complex business, environmental, and security challenges. Umbra is founded, funded, built and operated in the USA with headquarters in Santa Barbara, California, and has a presence in Austin, Texas, and Washington, D.C. For more information, visit https://umbra.space (Source: PR Newswire)
19 Aug 24. The Polaris Program, a test and developmental program of new spaceflight technology, will usher in a new era of commercial space exploration when SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launches the program’s first mission, Polaris Dawn, on Monday, August 26, 2024. This milestone mission will include testing a next-generation spacesuit during the first commercial spacewalk; endeavoring to achieve the highest altitude of any human spaceflight mission since the Apollo program; and testing a new communication system using Starlink. There will be a special on-orbit reading of a children’s book, Kisses from Space, written by a crewmember; and much more. The four crewmembers will also use their approximately five days on-orbit to conduct nearly 40 critical health research experiments, all while raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®.
“After more than two years of training, we are excited to embark on this mission,” said Jared Isaacman, commander of the Polaris Dawn mission. “We are incredibly thankful for this opportunity and to the thousands of SpaceX engineers who have contributed to this endeavor. We hope the results from our mission will accelerate SpaceX’s vision to make life multiplanetary and support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its efforts to improve global survival rates for childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Throughout our mission, we will aim to inspire humankind to look up and imagine what we can achieve here on Earth and in the worlds beyond our own.”
The Polaris Dawn crew includes:
- Jared Isaacman, Mission Commander, is founder and CEO of Shift4, and also served as Mission Commander of Inspiration4, the world’s first all-civilian mission to space in 2021 that helped raise over $250 m for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. An accomplished aviator and adventurer from Pennsylvania, Isaacman is rated to fly commercial and military aircraft and holds several world air records, including two Speed-Around-The-World flights;
- Scott “Kidd” Poteet, Mission Pilot, is a retired United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and his 20 years in the service included Commander of the 64th Aggressor Squadron, USAF Thunderbird #4 Demonstration Pilot, Operational Test & Evaluation Pilot, and Flight Examiner. Poteet previously served as mission director for Inspiration4. A runner and triathlete, New Hampshire native, Poteet has completed 15 Ironman Triathlons since 2000, including four Ironman World Championships in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii;
- Sarah Gillis, Mission Specialist, is a Colorado native who is a Lead Space Operations Engineer at SpaceX, where she is responsible for overseeing the company’s astronaut training program. A classically trained violinist, Gillis began as an intern for SpaceX in 2015, and worked on human-in-the-loop testing of the Dragon spacecraft. Her mentor, former NASA astronaut Joseph R. Tanner, first encouraged her to study aerospace engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. Inspired by her experience as a musician, Gillis has developed a curriculum, A Musician’s Guide to Reaching for the Stars, in collaboration with El Sistema USA, that encourages students to reach for their dreams and discover the connections between music, creativity and exploration; and
- Anna Menon, Mission Specialist and Medical Officer, is a Lead Space Operations Engineer at SpaceX, where she manages the development of crew operations and serves in Mission Control as both a Mission Director and Crew Communicator. Menon resides in Houston and is married to newly minted NASA astronaut Anil Menon. She has written a children’s book, Kisses from Space, which was inspired by her experience preparing for the Polaris Dawn mission and her desire to share her spaceflight experience with her two young children. She will read it from space during the mission and proceeds from her sales of the book will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Kisses from Space is now available in bookstores nationwide and wherever books are available online.
The Polaris Dawn crew will leverage Falcon 9’s and Dragon’s maximum performance to endeavor to reach several milestones for commercial spaceflight, including:
- Flying higher than any previous Dragon mission to date and reaching the highest Earth orbit ever flown while moving through portions of the Van Allen radiation belt at an orbital altitude of 190 x 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) from Earth’s surface – or more than three times higher than the International Space Station. This will be the highest altitude of any human spaceflight mission in more than a half-century since the Apollo program;
- Attempting the first-ever commercial spacewalk. This will take place at an elliptical orbit of 190 x 700 kilometers (435 miles) above Earth in newly developed SpaceX EVA spacesuits. During the spacewalk, the crew will conduct a series of tests that will provide necessary data that will allow SpaceX teams to produce and scale for future long-duration missions. The crew worked with SpaceX engineers throughout suit development, testing various iterations for mobility and performance (along with mobility aids and systems procedures), and conducted operations inside vacuum chambers to validate pre-breathe protocols and the readiness of the EVA suit;
- Testing laser-based satellite communication using optical links between the Dragon spacecraft and Starlink satellites, revolutionizing the speed and quality of space communications;
- Conducting nearly 40 experiments for critical scientific research designed to advance our knowledge of human health both on Earth and during future long-duration space flights.
The Polaris Dawn crew is in the final stages after more than two years of essential training activities preparing them for the landmark mission. This training has included centrifuge operations, hundreds of hours of Dragon simulations, skydiving, survival training, high performance aircraft piloting, Zero-G flight training and altitude training, as well as classroom academics and medical testing. Additionally, and especially important for Polaris Dawn, the crew received extensive EVA training, both underwater and suspended operations, as well as the associated medical training.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® is the official charitable partner of Polaris Dawn and fundraising for St. Jude will be integrated into various aspects of the mission. DORITOS®, a PepsiCo Foods brand, is making a significant donation to St. Jude and will join this historic mission. IWC Schaffhausen will also support the mission through its specially designed and donated Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Polaris Dawn” watch, which will be worn on the flight before being auctioned to benefit St. Jude.
Additional details will be revealed leading up to, during, and after the mission via the Polaris Dawn website and social media channels, including other first-of-their-kind events to be held and shared while in orbit.
About Polaris Dawn
Polaris Dawn is the first of three human spaceflights under the Polaris Program. The program is named after Polaris, a constellation of three stars more commonly known as the North Star, which has been a guiding light throughout human history to help us navigate the world and inspire progress. The mission is in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. To learn more about Polaris Dawn, visit https://polarisprogram.com/dawn/ and follow the mission on X (@PolarisProgram), and Instagram (@PolarisProgram). (Source: PR Newswire)
20 Aug 24. Global satellite communications pioneers, ALL.SPACE, have announced their terminals have been certified by SES, a leading global content and connectivity satellite operator enabling the company to continue delivering ubiquitous connectivity across space, land, air, and sea for the defence sector, with cutting-edge technology solutions that address the complex challenges of today’s evolving satellite industry.
As an SES-certified organisation, ALL.SPACE is approved to work on all SES Ka-band GEO satellites and its MEO O3b network.
The announcement comes as ALL.SPACE is attending TechNet Augusta 2024, hosted by the AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association International), to demonstrate Hydra, a new product designed to provide resilience in GEO, MEO and LEO satellite operations, which enables simultaneous data transmission to two satellites and doubles terminal capacity to 250MHz.
Research* has found that the market for military satellite technology has been steadily growing in recent years and is expected to grow 8.5% by 2028, reaching a total market value of $74.4 bn. A result of rising global concern around terrorism driving an increased need for global surveillance, communication and data transfer capabilities.
As improved military communication networks become critical, products like ALL.SPACE’s Hydra will play a pivotal role in advancing technology solutions for the defence sector.
Paul McCarter, COO, ALL.SPACE: “This milestone not only highlights our commitment to innovation and excellence but also sets a new standard in the satellite communications industry. Our ability to provide simultaneous connectivity over GEO, MEO, and LEO orbits will enable us to deliver unparalleled solutions to our customers. We are excited to showcase our latest product, Hydra, at TechNet Augusta 2024, which we believe will revolutionise data assurance in satellite operations and play a crucial role in advancing technology solutions for the defence sector.”
11 Aug 24. SpaceX launches Space Norway Arctic Satellite Broadband mission on a foggy California evening. With one m pounds of fuel a foggy California Pacific Ocean site was the scene of SpaceX’s launch of Space Norway Arctic Satellite Broadband mission. Liftoff was exactly at 7:02 PDT from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. Following stage separation, the first stage landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship, which is stationed in the Pacific Ocean.
This is the 22nd flight of the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-1, Crew-2, SXM-8, CRS-23, IXPE, Transporter-4, Transporter-5, Globalstar FM15, ISI EROS C-3, Korea 425, Maxar 1, and 10 Starlink missions.
The U.S. Air Force provides the Extremely High Frequency eXtended Data Rate payloads on ASBM satellites as part of the Enhanced Polar System Recapitalization (EPS-R) program.
The Enhanced Polar System (EPS) provides protected tactical extremely high frequency (EHF) satellite communications in the North Polar Region. EPS is the next-generation tactical SATCOM system that replaces the Interim Polar System (IPS) and serves as a polar adjunct to the Advanced EHF (AEHF) satellite constellation. The EPS Recapitalization (EPS-R) program will extend the polar capability provided by EPS until the fielding of the next-generation Protected Tactical SATCOM (PTS) system expected to launch in the early 2030s. (Source: Satnews)
15 Aug 24. SpaceX launches Maxar’s WorldView 3 & 4 Earth imaging satellites. These are the second pair of six planned WorldView Legion satellites, which will enhance Maxar Intelligence’s constellation by delivering industry-leading resolution and accuracy. When all six WorldView Legion satellites are launched, it will triple Maxar Intelligence’s capacity to collect 30 cm-class and multispectral imagery. The full Maxar constellation of 10 electro-optical satellites will image the most rapidly changing areas on Earth as frequently as every 20 to 30 minutes, from sunup to sundown.
On Thursday, August 15, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 booster successfully returned after the WorldView 3 & 4 Earth Imaging satellites’ launch. This was the 16th flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster B1076 supporting this mission that landed 7:48 minutes later at Landing Zone 1, about six miles from where it had launched only minutes before. Moments later, a pair of sonic booms sounded the booster’s return. This booster previously launched CRS-26, OneWeb Launch 16, Intelsat IS-40e, O3b mPOWER, Ovzon 3, Eutelsat 36D, Turksat 6A, and eight Starlink missions. (Source: Satnews)
09 Aug 24. KSAT intros fully automated KSATlite launch + deorbit Service following Rocket Lab collaboration. Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) has announced the launch of the company’s fully automated launch and deorbit service on the KSATlite network. The development of this service has been greatly enhanced by the close collaboration between KSAT and Rocket Lab, a global leader in launch services and space systems.
The new service is an enhancement of the existing KSATlite portfolio to provide seamless, automated support for launch vehicles and deorbit operations. Designed to meet the growing demands of the space industry, this new service with unique antenna tracking features and extended monitoring and control capabilities enables complex mission support.
Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle is one of the world’s most frequently launched rockets, having successfully delivered 190+ satellites to space for government and commercial customers across science and exploration missions, Earth observation, weather monitoring, and national security.
Further expanding its launch capabilities, Rocket Lab is developing its new medium lift reusable rocket Neutron to launch constellations of satellites, national security and defense missions, and interplanetary missions from mid 2025.
Rocket Lab also designs, builds, launches, and operates spacecraft for a variety of government and commercial satellite operators, enabling missions to the Moon for NASA, and providing in space operations, deorbit, and return to Earth spacecraft re entry operations for commercial customers such as Varda Space Industries.
By working together, both companies have leveraged their expertise to create a more efficient and reliable service. This co-engineering effort not only benefits KSAT and Rocket Lab but also provides significant advantages for launch and satellite operators by offering improved service quality and reduced operational costs.
Key Features and Benefits
- Automation: The service offers end-to-end automation, from the pre-launch test to the actual launch event, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing the risk of human error.
- New features: Unique antenna tracking features suitable for support of complex mission design and extended monitoring and control capabilities
- Scalability: The KSATlite network’s scalable infrastructure ensures that the service can accommodate a wide range of missions across any location
- Global Coverage: With an extensive network of ground stations strategically located around the globe, KSATlite provides unparalleled coverage and connectivity for launchers and satellite operators
- Reliability: The automated system is built on KSAT’s proven technology, ensuring high reliability and uptime for critical operations
- Cost Efficiency: By automating key processes, the service reduces operational costs, providing a cost-effective solution for launch companies and satellite operators
- Standardization: Application of industry standards including IRIG-106 ensures compatibility for mission operations
“Our fully automated launch and deorbit service represents a major advancement in ground station technology,” said Arthur Kvalheim Merlin, Director of Ground Network Products. “By integrating this capability into our KSATlite network, we are setting a new standard for efficiency and reliability in space operations. This innovation will not only streamline the process for our customers but also significantly reduce operational risks and costs.” KSAT targets an operational readiness of the service in 2025, with one of its earlier customers being Rocket Lab and their brand-new Neutron rocket.” (Source: Satnews)
15 Aug 24. Resolve Optics offers miniature space ready optics. Key considerations when designing lenses for use in smallsats (micro and nano) include how they react to the vibration and shock encountered on launch as well as the extremes of temperature, high vacuum and cosmic radiation that are encountered in space.
Rob Watkinson of Resolve Optics said, “As satellites have decreased in size there is the necessity for the optics that lie at the heart of these imaging platforms to also reduce in size and weight. This is not always a straightforward task. If you are developing a camera system for a micro- or nanosatellite-based space mission, we recommend incorporating a compact sensor and then it will be possible for us to keep the lens design compact as well. Being able to keep the size of the lens compact also helps them withstand vibration and shock during launch into space as the mass is small. To ensure your micro- or nanosatellite optics are sufficiently robust, all elements in our space-ready optics are secured and unable to break loose when subjected to the rigours of launch and other environmental factors. All our satellite lenses and optical systems are athermalized to ensure they maintain focus throughout the wide operating temperature range typically experienced in space. The impact of cosmic radiation on your lens or optical system is a major consideration when designing for use in space. Unfortunately, standard optical glass types turn brown or grey when exposed to cosmic radiation. As a result, the light transmission of the lens will degrade markedly in just days or weeks. For longer term space missions, we use cerium doped glass elements that prolong the life of the satellite lens or optical system to years.”
Over the last 20 years, Resolve Optics has built a reputation for designing and supplying high performance space ready optical systems for monitoring the outside of spacecraft looking for any signs of damage caused by space debris or micro meteorites. For inspection tasks, where the optical system is required to view a specific area to aid operation. As part of a vision systems used to guide and dock payload craft visiting platforms such as used on the International Space Station. And, to enhance remote sensing from satellites where powerful, high-resolution lenses enable the Earth to be viewed from space providing valuable data on the Earth to be viewed from space providing valuable weather patterns and the impact of climate change. (Source: Satnews)
14 Aug 24. AST SpaceMobile’s satellites arrive at Cape Canaveral for upcoming launch. AST SpaceMobile BlueBird satellites arrive at Cape Canaveral. AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (“AST SpaceMobile”) (NASDAQ: ASTS) has announced that the firm’s first five commercial satellites, called BlueBirds, have arrived in Cape Canaveral, Florida, ahead of the planned orbital launch during a 7 day launch window this September.”
The BlueBird satellites feature the largest-ever commercial communications arrays to be deployed in LEO, at a remarkable 693 square feet, a technological leap forward in AST SpaceMobile’s ability to deliver seamless cellular broadband connectivity to bns of mobile users worldwide.
Building on the success of its BlueWalker 3 satellite, AST SpaceMobile’s first five commercial satellites will have a tenfold increase in processing capacity. This advancement sets the stage for delivering global space-based cellular broadband directly to everyday smartphones, starting with non-continuous coverage across the continental United States using over 5,600 cells on premium low-band spectrum.
These first five commercial satellites were built in AST SpaceMobile state-of-the-art 185,000 square feet facilities in Midland, TX, specifically designed for satellite production. This advanced facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology, is a testament to AST SpaceMobile’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.
During 2024, AST SpaceMobile has secured additional strategic investment from AT&T, Verizon, Google and Vodafone, as well as a new contract award with the United States Government through a prime contractor. The company has agreements with more than 45 mobile network operators globally, which have more than 2.8 bn existing subscribers total, including Vodafone Group, AT&T, Verizon, Rakuten Mobile, Bell Canada, Orange, Telefonica, TIM, Saudi Telecom Company, Zain KSA, Etisalat, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, Telkomsel, Smart Communications, Globe Telecom, Millicom, Smartfren, Telecom Argentina, MTN, Telstra, Africell, Liberty Latin America and others. AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Google, Rakuten, American Tower, and Bell Canada are also existing investors in AST SpaceMobile. (Source: Satnews)
11 Aug 24. Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today successfully launched its 52nd Electron rocket and deployed a single satellite to low Earth orbit for Capella Space (Capella).
The mission, named “A Sky Full of SARs” in a nod to the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities of Capella’s spacecraft, lifted off at 01:18 AM New Zealand Standard Time on August 12th from Launch Complex 1, Rocket Lab’s private orbital launch site on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula. The mission deployed the next of Capella’s third-generation SAR Acadia satellites to a mid-inclination 615km low Earth orbit. In addition to the launch service, Rocket Lab provided a custom extended fairing on Electron to encompass the payload before Capella’s satellite was deployed to space from a Rocket Lab-produced separation system.
The mission was the fifth launch for Capella that’s taken place since Capella’s first mission on Electron in August 2020. That mission, called “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Optical”, launched from Launch Complex 1 to deploy the very first satellite in Capella’s SAR constellation. Subsequent successful missions include the “Stronger Together” mission launched for Capella from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 2 on Wallops Island, Virginia, in March 2023 and the “We Love The Nightlife” mission launched from Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand just five months later in August 2023.
Rocket Lab founder and CEO Peter Beck says, “Electron is a reliable constellation builder, providing precise and dedicated deployment to unique orbits that allows satellite operators like Capella to iteratively build out their constellation when and where they need to. I’m proud of the team for delivering this latest successful mission for Capella and for successfully delivering nine missions so far this year as Electron’s launch cadence continues to ramp up. With many more missions scheduled in the coming weeks and months, we look forward to delivering our busiest launch year yet in 2024.”
The launch window for Rocket Lab’s next Electron mission will be announced in the coming days. Most recently Rocket Lab announced a record 10 launch contract with Japanese Earth observation company Synspective, with another two launches in addition to that contract already booked and scheduled for launch on Electron this year. Other satellite operators expected to launch this year under existing multi-launch contracts with Rocket Lab include space-based intelligence company BlackSky and French Internet-of-Things (IoT) company Kinéis. (Source: Satnews)
17 Aug 24. Morocco Strengthens Defence Capabilities with Acquisition of Advanced Earth Observation Satellites from Israel. Morocco has finalised a deal with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to acquire two cutting-edge Earth Observation satellites in a significant move to bolster its intelligence and surveillance capabilities. Announced by Military Africa, the agreement is valued at approximately USD 1 bn and is a strategic step toward enhancing Morocco’s capacity to monitor and address geopolitical challenges in the region.
Replacing the Mohammed VI Satellites
This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in Morocco’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its space-based intelligence infrastructure. The new satellites are set to replace the Mohammed VI-A and Mohammed VI-B satellites developed by the Airbus Defence and Space France and Thales Alenia Space France consortium. Replacing these satellites is part of Morocco’s broader strategy to diversify and strengthen the Royal Armed Forces’ capabilities across air, ground, naval, and space domains.
Introducing the Ofek 13 (Ofeq-13) Reconnaissance Satellites
The newly acquired satellites, known as Ofek 13, are expected to be operational within five years and will bring significant advancements in reconnaissance technology. These satellites are equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, allowing high-resolution imaging with a resolution of up to 0.5 meters. Unlike traditional optical satellites, SAR technology enables satellites to capture images in any weather condition, day or night, making them a reliable tool for continuous surveillance.
The ability of SAR to penetrate vegetation and soil is particularly valuable, as it allows for detecting hidden ground features. This capability is essential for creating accurate topographic maps, which can be used for various applications, including border security, monitoring civil unrest, and supporting disaster management efforts. Therefore, by providing detailed and reliable information, these satellites will enable the Moroccan government to respond swiftly to potential conflicts, manage natural resources more effectively, and address environmental and land use issues.
Enhancing National Security and Governance
Deploying the Ofek 13 satellites is expected to significantly enhance Morocco’s ability to monitor its borders and ensure national security. The high-resolution images provided by the satellites will allow for better detection and response to threats, contributing to a more secure and stable region. Additionally, the satellites will support Morocco’s efforts to manage and mitigate the impact of natural disasters, ultimately protecting vulnerable populations. Moreover, the SAR technology’s capacity to provide transparent and verifiable data will be crucial in promoting evidence-based policymaking. Thus, by enabling informed decisions, the new satellites will foster public trust in government actions and help reduce tensions within the country.
A Broader Defence Partnership
The acquisition of these satellites is part of a broader defence cooperation between Morocco and Israel, which has been growing since the two countries formalised their defence ties in late 2021. Between August and November 2021, Morocco and Israel signed three accords on political consultations, aviation, and culture. This was Israel’s first-ever defence MoU with an Arab country, allowing for smoother cooperation between their defence establishments and making it easier for Israel to sell arms to the North African nation.
This partnership encompasses intelligence sharing, collaboration in military industries, and procurement of advanced defence technologies. In addition, the acquisition of the Ofek 13 satellites underscores the depth of this cooperation and highlights Morocco’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities through strategic international partnerships.
(Source: Google/https://spaceinafrica.com/)
17 Aug 24. ICEYE, the global leader in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite operations for Earth Observation, persistent monitoring, and natural catastrophe solutions, has successfully launched four new SAR satellites on August 16, 2024. The new satellites further expand the world’s largest SAR constellation, owned and operated by ICEYE. The satellites were integrated via Exolaunch and successfully lifted off aboard the Transporter-11 Rideshare mission with Space X from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA. Each spacecraft has established communication, and early routine operations are underway.
The satellites serve both ICEYE’s commercial and dedicated customer missions and were manufactured by ICEYE in Finland and ICEYE US in the United States. The satellites include the first ICEYE satellite launch for Bayanat (a leading provider of AI-powered geospatial solutions) and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat – the UAE’s flagship satellite solutions provider) for their earlier announced Earth Observation Space Program.
“With frequent and steady deployment of new satellites into the ICEYE constellation, we are making progress towards our vision of improving life on Earth by becoming the global source of truth in Earth Observation. The powerful and capable satellite constellation ensures fulfilling our commitments to working as a trusted partner with a growing number of governments and commercial industries to deliver timely, accurate, and actionable insights for faster and better decision-making. We are proud to launch the first ICEYE satellite for our customer Bayanat and Yahsat and look forward to continued successful cooperation on their missions”, said Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-Founder of ICEYE.
Hasan Al Hosani, Managing Director of Bayanat, said: “The launch of our first satellite marks a highly anticipated milestone for both our collaborative efforts and for the UAE. This is a triumphant moment for Bayanat and a defining step toward our future as Space42. Inaugurating our Earth Observation capabilities, including the debut of our SAR satellite constellation, will further strengthen our position as a leader in AI-powered geospatial analytics. Our ongoing partnership with ICEYE, building on our shared ambition with Yahsat, continues to prove invaluable, enabling us to leverage space insights for informed decision-making on Earth.”
Ali Al Hashemi, Group CEO of Yahsat, said: “The successful launch of our SAR satellite is a testament to the synergies between Bayanat and Yahsat as we press ahead with the anticipated merger to form Space42. The SAR satellite constellation to be launched over the next 3 years will enable us to expand as a multi-orbit satellite operator, encompassing Geostationary Orbit and Low Earth Orbit satellites while also developing satellite manufacturing capabilities in the UAE. This significant step also solidifies our extensive experience and reaffirms our place as pioneers in the UAE’s space sector and a significant player in the global SpaceTech industry.”
“We are pleased to add more next generation, U.S.-manufactured satellite capacity to the constellation. This further strengthens our capabilities to serve our customers with actionable data and insights”, said Eric Jensen, CEO of ICEYE US.
ICEYE operates the world’s largest constellation of SAR satellites. These satellites can image any location on the Earth’s surface in any environmental condition, day or night. SAR data provides precise insights for ICEYE’s government and commercial customers in near real-time.
ICEYE plans to launch up to 13 new satellites in 2024, and 10-15 new satellites annually in 2025 and beyond for its constellation and customers. The previous launch in March 2024 successfully deployed three new satellites into the constellation, and in 2023 ICEYE successfully launched 10 new satellites.
About ICEYE
ICEYE delivers unparalleled persistent monitoring capabilities to detect and respond to changes in any location on Earth, faster and more accurately than ever before.
Owning the world’s largest synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellation, ICEYE provides objective, near real-time insights, ensuring that customers have unmatched access to actionable data, day or night, even in challenging environmental conditions. As a trusted partner to governments and commercial industries, ICEYE delivers intelligence in sectors such as insurance, natural catastrophe response and recovery, security, maritime monitoring, and finance, enabling decision-making that contributes to community resilience and sustainable development.
ICEYE operates internationally with offices in Finland, Poland, Spain, the UK, and the US. We have more than 700 employees, inspired by the shared vision of improving life on Earth by becoming the global source of truth in Earth Observation.
17 Aug 24. UK Space Command successfully launches first military satellite. Cutting-edge new satellite launched by UK Space Command to provide crucial space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
Colleagues from Surrey Satellites Technology Limited watch the Space X Launch.
A UK satellite to support military operations successfully launched into space last night.
Named Tyche, the satellite is UK Space Command’s first satellite which can capture daytime images and videos of the Earth’s surface.
The satellite will strengthen the UK’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
As the conflict in Ukraine has shown, the use of space is crucial to military operations. Tyche is the first satellite to be launched under the Ministry of Defence’s space-based ISR programme, which will deliver a constellation of satellites and supporting ground systems by 2031.
These satellites will not only support military operations, but also contribute to other government tasks, including natural disaster monitoring, the development of mapping information, environmental monitoring and tracking the impact of climate change around the world.
Designed and built in the UK through a £22 m contract awarded by Defence Equipment & Support to Surrey Satellites Technology Limited (SSTL), Tyche is the first satellite to be fully owned by the Ministry of Defence.
SSTL received the first signals from Tyche – which is comparable in size to a washing machine – a few hours after lift-off, confirming the successful launch.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle said:
“Tyche will provide essential intelligence for military operations as well as supporting wider tasks across government.”
“Tyche also shows the UK’s commitment to support innovation in science and technology, stimulating growth across the sector and supporting highly skilled jobs in the UK.”
UK Space Commander, Major General Paul Tedman said:
“This is a fabulous day for UK space. The successful launch of Tyche has shown that UK Space Command, and its essential partners across defence and industry, can rapidly take a concept through to the delivery of a satellite capability on orbit.”
“Tyche represents the first of a future constellation of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance satellites that we’ll launch over the coming years.”
“I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate everybody involved with Tyche and thank them for their support.”
Paul Russell, DE&S Space Team Leader, said:
“Working closely with UK Space Command, Dstl and industry to understand how to deliver in a new, complex and critical environment has been an exciting journey.
“To see Tyche – the first of a new generation of UK military capabilities – delivered into orbit is an incredibly proud moment and a tribute to everyone’s commitment to this key project.”
Operating in Low Earth Orbit over a five-year lifespan, Tyche will provide timely space-based imagery in support of the UK Armed Forces. The design and build of the 150-kilogramme satellite has supported around 100 high-skilled roles at SSTL since 2022.
Tyche was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, by SpaceX, on their re-usable Falcon 9 rocket, as part of the ‘Transporter 11’ mission. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)