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DiskSats launch: A new era for space tech
10 Feb
Summary
- Pancake-shaped DiskSats are now in orbit.
- Two startups license DiskSat technology for new missions.
- DiskSats can operate at very low Earth orbit altitudes.
The Aerospace Corp. is disseminating its innovative DiskSat technology, with the initial four flat spacecraft currently undergoing commissioning. Commercial licensing agreements have been secured by Orbotic Systems and Satylt, marking a significant step in sharing this unique technology.
Orbotic Systems intends to deploy DiskSats in very low Earth orbit for space weather observations using its WIND sensor. CEO Erik Long announced plans to offer DiskSat as a Service (DaaS). Satylt, meanwhile, is collaborating with Aerospace to explore autonomous operations, in-orbit data processing, and distributed spacecraft coordination.
These DiskSats, each 2.5 centimeters thick with a one-meter diameter, were launched in December on a Rocket Lab Electron for the U.S. Space Force Space Test Program. The program aims to characterize the bus performance, demonstrate power generation, and evaluate communications and environmental-sensing payloads. The custom-built dispenser for the DiskSats functioned precisely as planned during deployment.
Following commissioning, one DiskSat will demonstrate sustained flight in very low Earth orbit, leveraging its low cross-sectional area for unprecedented low-altitude operations. Program officials have successfully demonstrated the flat satellites' ability to point and maneuver, validating the technology's potential.
