Small Satellite Guideline

Small Satellite Design Guideline for Efficient Stacking in Heavy Launchers (SSGL).

Small satellites are driving innovation, affordability, and accessibility in the rapidly evolving space sector. However, deploying large numbers remains costly and complex, even with rideshare missions. OHB Czechspace is leading an ESA-funded project to develop and validate a universal design guideline that enables efficient stacking across various launch vehicles.

Project Goals

The primary goal is to create a guideline enabling satellite developers to design satellites that are compatible with and can be integrated into stacking configurations.

The secondary objective is to design the stacking system and validate it by breadboard model testing.

Benefits

The SSGL maximizes the use of heavy launcher capacity by reducing the weight of a dispenser structure, therefore freeing the capacity for other satellites.

This also lowers the fairing cost per satellite, making it an ideal solution for rideshare missions and constellation deployments.

The stacking concept enables satellite orientation in the flight direction, which positively impacts the structural design in comparison to satellite attached to dispenser in side-mounted orientation.

Furthermore, the project aligns with the Zero Debris approach. No waste is released into orbit during satellite separation. One part of the stacking mechanism remains attached to the launcher, while the remaining components burn up in the atmosphere at the end of the satellite’s life cycle.

Our involvement

OHB Czechspace is responsible for the development and breadboard model testing of a new concept for stacking small satellites, including the preparation of a guideline for satellite manufacturers.

An essential part of the project is the involvement of interested parties – satellite manufacturers, constellation owners, launch providers and other stakeholders – in order to incorporate their needs into a functional stacking concept. Get in touch!

ssgl@ohb-czech.cz

 

Who is behind the project?

Our customer is the European Space Agency. OHB Czechspace is the prime contractor with support provided by OHB LuxSpace as a subcontractor.

The SSGL project is carried out under a programme of and funded by the European Space Agency. The view expressed herein can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the ESA.

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