What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Beyond Gravity has secured a contract to supply robotic arm thruster pointing mechanisms for Swissto12's small satellites intended for geostationary orbit. The contract includes five satellites announced for Intelsat, Viasat, and Astrum Mobile. The Hummingsat platform, weighing 1-ton, represents a new generation of smaller satellites and is scheduled to debut in 2027 with the IS-45 mission for Intelsat. The Appmax 3 arms, longer and with a wider range of joint movement than previous models, will be delivered between 2026 and 2027. These arms allow for flexible system implementation and orientation of thrusters, optimizing fuel usage and combining orbit raising and station keeping capabilities.
Why It's Important?
The contract signifies a shift towards smaller, more efficient satellite platforms, which could reduce costs and increase the accessibility of satellite technology. By optimizing fuel usage and reducing hardware needs, the Appmax 3 arms could lead to more sustainable satellite operations. This development is crucial for companies like Intelsat, Viasat, and Astrum Mobile, as it may enhance their competitive edge in the satellite communications market. The move also highlights the growing importance of innovative satellite technologies in the global communications infrastructure.
What's Next?
The debut of the Hummingsat platform in 2027 will be a significant milestone, potentially influencing future satellite designs and operations. Stakeholders in the satellite industry may closely monitor the performance of these new systems to assess their viability for broader application. The success of this initiative could lead to further contracts and collaborations between satellite manufacturers and technology providers like Beyond Gravity.
Beyond the Headlines
The integration of robotic arms capable of carrying multiple thrusters on a single arm represents a technological advancement that could redefine satellite design standards. This innovation may prompt discussions on the ethical and environmental implications of satellite proliferation, particularly concerning space debris and orbital congestion.
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