TriSept Corporation has signed comprehensive launch service agreements with Millennium Space Systems and Rocket Lab to support a unique mission aimed at helping to solve the ever-increasing LEO debris challenge.
Millennium Space Systems is designing and building, and will be operating the Millennium RAPTOR satellites and working with TriSept to manage the mission for the DRAGRACER initiative.
This rideshare mission will launch aboard the Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle in early 2020. Once in space, the 25 kg. smallsat will split into two payloads to demonstrate how a new de-orbit technology, the Terminator Tape developed by Tethers Unlimited Inc., can help reduce orbital debris.
One of the test satellites will feature the deployable Terminator Tape, designed to add significant drag to the spacecraft and allow researchers to closely study how the device can dramatically accelerate reentry and the removal of orbital debris once a spacecraft reaches end of life. An onboard timer will trigger the tether deployment on the experimental satellite a few days into the mission, with reentry estimates in the two- to four-week range for the spacecraft with the Terminator Tape, and eight to 12 months without the enhanced drag device.
TriSept will provide full spacecraft integration with the launch vehicle and procurement of dispenser device hardware used to release the small satellites into space. TriSept is also leading collaborative efforts with Millennium Space Systems and Rocket Lab to secure regulatory approvals from U.S. and New Zealand space agencies.
Mike Scardera, VP of Advanced Concepts, Millennium Space Systems, said the DRAGRACER mission is all about providing an affordable, effective and scalable solution to the orbital debris challenge facing the LEO smallsat market and the global space industry. This is the first in a series of critical project missions the company expects to launch with TriSept. By working with such a seasoned support crew, the company can focus on building the best flight solutions for today’s challenges in space.
Rob Spicer, TriSept President and CEO, added that the collaborative relationship between TriSept, Millennium Space Systems and Rocket Lab is driving new innovative and meaningful missions in space, such as the DRAGRACER initiative dedicated to exploring creative solutions to the orbital space debris challenge. The company is honored that Millennium Space Systems has entrusted TriSept with the integration and management of this important mission aboard the firm's second launch with the proven Rocket Lab Electron. DRAGRACER could ultimately help shape how the industry handles orbital debris for years to come.
Lars Hoffman, SVP of Global Launch Services, Rocket Lab, stated that this rideshare mission slated for launch aboard the firm's Rocket Lab Electron is significant as Millennium Space Systems, supported by TriSept’s seasoned launch integration team, tackles one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today. Rocket Lab looks forward to working closely with these two space industry innovators in preparation for an exciting milestone launch of the DRAGRACER orbital debris initiative.
For all involved in the satellite and space industry and the various market segments that add value to these dynamic environments, the 2020 SmallSat Symposium is truly worth your consideration for attendance.
The 2020 SmallSat Symposium starts on February 3, 2020, with workshops, then the Conference runs February 4 to 6 at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley.
The SmallSat Symposium is hosted by Satnews Publishers which, since 1983, has been a provider of a satellite news, media and events. This information packed forum was created to enable you and your company to secure a larger portion of market share as well as to take part in the next stages of your company's or organization's growth.
The personal connections at the SmallSat Symposium enable attendees to network with established organizations, subject-matter experts as well as 'New Space' entrants.
The SmallSat Symposium will focus on new technologies and the business environment that is shaping the implementation of smallsat constellations, smallsat launchers, the challenges facing the smallsat developer and actors as well as the enormous benefits of these advanced technologies that will benefit our world.
This event assembles more than 100 diverse speakers, all of whom possess deep industry experience. Additionally, numerous opportunities exist to mingle and network with peers while enjoying exceptional, complimentary meals and refreshment breakfast.