TTTech: Secure networking for safety-critical space systems
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-03 05:25
TTTech Aerospace provides reliable networking and computing platforms that connect the systems on board spacecraft, launch vehicles, or satellites. Its commercial off-the-shelf products, box-level commercial solutions, testing and lab equipment, and software tools support original equipment manufacturers and system integrators.
Artemis 1 cubesat nearing end of mission
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-03 00:16
LunaH-Map was one of 10 cubesats launched as secondary payloads on the inaugural flight of the Space Launch System. The spacecraft had planned to use an ion propulsion system to perform a maneuver as it flew by the moon. That thruster, though, failed to fire because of what engineers believe is a stuck valve.
Air Force to launch Link 16 tactical communications cubesat
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 22:25
The long-delayed experiment, named XVI, will demonstrate “improved communication with the allied Link-16 community’ Viasat built the satellite for AFRL under a $10 million contract awarded in 2019. The XVI cubesat was projected to launch in 2020 but was delayed by supply chain problems.
Satellite manufacturer LeoStella focused on defense market as commercial demand softens
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 21:29
LeoStella, a manufacturer of small satellites, is pursuing U.S. Defense sales. A large military constellation in low Earth orbit is a main target of opportunity. LeoStella is in discussions with multiple defense contractors about using the company’s new satellite bus.
European space giants join forces for IRIS2
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 20:57
Group is led by satellite operators Eutelsat, SES, and Hispasat. Airbus Defence and Space and Thales Alenia Space are also part of the group. IRIS2 would complement satellites Europe has in geostationary orbit. The competitive tender for IRIS2 is open to companies bidding collectively.
African space agencies have the potential to lead the global space race
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 13:30
Maia Moore is a graduate student in Georgetown University’s Science, Technology and International Affairs program and a fellow with the U.S. State Department. Africa’s emerging space industry is booming. Currently, more than 20 African countries have space programs. South Africa will host the world’s biggest radio telescope, the Square Kilometre Array, by the end of 2024.
Court approves plans for Virgin Orbit bankruptcy sale
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 10:27
A federal bankruptcy court has approved plans to conduct a sale of Virgin Orbit's assets. The sale could result in either new ownership for the launch provider or its dissolution. Potential bidders have until May 4 to submit non-binding indications of interest. If that process results in more than one qualified bid, an auction will take place May 18.
Mynaric receives order from Loft Federal for CONDOR Mk3 optical comms terminals to support SDA’s NExT – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 00:00
Mynaric (NASDAQ: MYNA) recently entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of CONDOR Mk3 terminals to Loft Federal, a subsidiary of Loft Orbital. Loft Federal was selected to produce, deploy and operate NExT — the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Experimental Testbed. Terminal deliveries are primarily scheduled for the first half of 2024.
Spire Global launches weather insights platform for maritime industry – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 00:00
Spire Global, Inc. (NYSE: SPIR) recently launched their new Deep Navigation Analytics™ Platform. The platform uses radio occultation (RO) data acquired by the company’s fully deployed satellite constellation and proprietary weather forecasting model. Spire’s platform enables quick and easy access to highly accurate maritime weather information via reliable APIs.
General Atomics delivers spacecraft simulator supporting NASA TSIS-2 program – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2023-05-02 00:00
GA-EMS is under contract with NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center to build the TSIS-2 spacecraft. The spacecraft simulator provides valuable capabilities to test system performance, payload interfaces, and functions pre-flight. Once launched, the satellite will provide NASA with continuous solar monitoring capabilities throughout its mission life.
New Video Series Captures Team Working on NASA’s Europa Clipper
The Europa Clipper mission is on its way to Jupiter’s icy moon, Europa. Its main science goal is to determine whether there are places below the surface of Europa that could support life. Additional episodes of “Spacecraft Makers’ will include more activity inside other clean rooms where components of Europa Clipper are coming together.