Session
Session 2: Next on the Pad
Abstract
To be launched in Q4 2018, the HawkEye 360 (HE360) Pathfinder mission will validate key enabling technologies and operational methods necessary to provide unprecedented analysis of wireless signals for commercial and government applications using small satellites. Applications range from logistics monitoring and tracking of aircraft, ships, and ground transportation, to emergency response and other data analytics and services. The mission will nominally consist of three Pathfinder satellites, operated in formation, to demonstrate and validate an initial operational capability. Following the Pathfinder demonstration a constellation with more than 18 satellites will be deployed. HE360 has contracted Deep Space Industries (DSI) and major subcontractor Space Flight Laboratory (SFL) to design and manufacture the spacecraft platform for the Pathfinder demonstration mission. In addition to being a world leader in low-cost high-performance small spacecraft, SFL is a pioneer in low-cost precision spacecraft formation flight, a key enabling technology for HE360 mission. DSI, a world leader in state-of-the-art launch safe propulsion systems, is providing the CometTM water-fueled resisto-jet propulsion system for the mission. This paper describes the HawkEye 360 Pathfinder mission, with a focus on the core enabling platform and payload technologies.
Making the Invisible Visible: Precision RF-Emitter Geolocation from Space by the HawkEye 360 Pathfinder Mission
To be launched in Q4 2018, the HawkEye 360 (HE360) Pathfinder mission will validate key enabling technologies and operational methods necessary to provide unprecedented analysis of wireless signals for commercial and government applications using small satellites. Applications range from logistics monitoring and tracking of aircraft, ships, and ground transportation, to emergency response and other data analytics and services. The mission will nominally consist of three Pathfinder satellites, operated in formation, to demonstrate and validate an initial operational capability. Following the Pathfinder demonstration a constellation with more than 18 satellites will be deployed. HE360 has contracted Deep Space Industries (DSI) and major subcontractor Space Flight Laboratory (SFL) to design and manufacture the spacecraft platform for the Pathfinder demonstration mission. In addition to being a world leader in low-cost high-performance small spacecraft, SFL is a pioneer in low-cost precision spacecraft formation flight, a key enabling technology for HE360 mission. DSI, a world leader in state-of-the-art launch safe propulsion systems, is providing the CometTM water-fueled resisto-jet propulsion system for the mission. This paper describes the HawkEye 360 Pathfinder mission, with a focus on the core enabling platform and payload technologies.
