The Small Satellite Cost Model (SSCM) is a sophisticated parametric cost estimation tool developed by The Aerospace Corporation, drawing on over 30 years of research. Designed specifically for modern small satellites weighing up to 1000 kilograms, SSCM addresses the limitations of traditional cost models that often overestimate expenses for these smaller systems. Particularly effective during the early conceptual phases of spacecraft development, SSCM allows for comprehensive cost and performance trade-offs through its collection of cost-estimating relationships. The latest iteration, SSCM19, released in December 2019, provides accurate estimates for various subsystems, including attitude determination and control, propulsion, power, telemetry, and thermal management, making it an invaluable resource for aerospace professionals engaged in small satellite projects.
Airbus is playing a crucial role in NASA's Artemis program through the development of the European Service Module (ESM) for the Orion spacecraft, which is set to enable human exploration of the Moon. As the "powerhouse" of Orion, the ESM provides essential services such as propulsion, power generation, and life support, including water and breathable air for astronauts. This significant achievement marks Airbus as the first non-U.S. provider to deliver a mission-critical component for an American human spaceflight mission. The ESM is integral to upcoming Artemis missions, particularly Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface and expand our understanding of the Moon and its resources. Through this partnership, Airbus is contributing to a new era of lunar exploration and international collaboration in space.
Airbus is at the forefront of Mars exploration, leveraging its extensive experience from past interplanetary missions, including the Mars Express launched in 2003. The company is currently developing the ExoMars rover, set for launch in 2028, which aims to search for signs of life and investigate the history of water on Mars. Named after British scientist Rosalind Franklin, this six-wheeled rover features an advanced autonomous navigation system that allows it to traverse the Martian surface more efficiently than traditional remote control methods. Equipped with a drill capable of sampling up to two meters deep and a 3D panoramic camera for detailed imaging, the rover will analyze samples onboard and transmit data back to Earth, contributing significantly to our understanding of the Red Planet. Additionally, Airbus is involved in the Mars Sample Return mission, further solidifying its role in humanity's quest to explore Mars.
The Space Data Highway is an innovative satellite communication network developed by Airbus, designed to facilitate ultra-fast data transfer between space and ground stations. This cutting-edge system leverages laser communication technology to provide high-capacity connectivity for various applications, including Earth observation, scientific research, and disaster management. By enabling real-time data transmission at speeds significantly faster than traditional radio frequency systems, the Space Data Highway enhances operational efficiency and supports critical missions in space. With its ability to connect multiple satellites and ground infrastructures seamlessly, this advanced network represents a significant advancement in space communications, ensuring that vital information can be shared quickly and securely across the globe.
SATCOMBw is a critical satellite-based communication system developed by Airbus to ensure stable and secure communications for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) during missions abroad, particularly in regions with unreliable infrastructure. This system features sovereign communications satellites paired with a range of fixed and transportable ground stations, enabling rapid deployment and reliable connectivity between deployment sites and the home base. As the prime contractor for SATCOMBw Stage 2 for over a decade, Airbus is responsible for designing, implementing, and delivering portable ground systems that provide the Bundeswehr with autonomy, security, and absolute control over their communications networks. This capability is essential for maintaining operational effectiveness in diverse and challenging environments.
The SATCOM Iridium system by Airbus provides a robust and reliable satellite communication solution designed for military operations, ensuring secure connectivity in remote and challenging environments. This system leverages the extensive Iridium satellite network to deliver global coverage, enabling voice and data communications for armed forces deployed in various operational theaters. With its high resilience and adaptability, SATCOM Iridium is ideal for mission-critical applications, allowing military personnel to maintain effective communication regardless of location or infrastructure limitations. This capability enhances situational awareness and operational efficiency, making it an essential tool for modern military missions.
Airbus is a key player in Earth observation and climate monitoring, contributing to initiatives like the Copernicus program, which is the world's most ambitious environmental and climate monitoring effort. This program encompasses a fleet of satellites designed for both "in-situ" measurements and derived services that address critical areas such as oceans, atmosphere, climate change, land management, security, and emergency response. By building advanced satellites and instruments, Airbus transforms geospatial data into actionable insights that support efforts to combat climate change and enhance our understanding of the planet. From short-term weather predictions to long-term global climate assessments, Airbus's commitment to Earth observation plays a vital role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Airbus is a leading contributor to Earth observation and climate monitoring through its involvement in the Copernicus program, the world's most ambitious initiative for environmental and climate assessment. This program includes a constellation of satellites designed for both "in-situ" measurements and derived services that focus on critical areas such as oceans, atmosphere, climate change, land management, security, and emergency response. By building advanced satellites and instruments, Airbus transforms geospatial data into actionable insights that aid in combating climate change and enhancing our understanding of the Earth's systems. With capabilities ranging from short-term weather predictions to long-term global climate monitoring, Airbus is at the forefront of efforts to address the pressing challenges of climate change.
Airbus is a pivotal player in Earth observation and climate monitoring, significantly contributing to the Copernicus program, which is recognized as the world's most ambitious initiative for environmental assessment. This program features a network of satellites dedicated to "in-situ" measurements and derived services that focus on critical areas, including oceans, atmosphere, climate change, land management, security, and emergency response. By designing and building advanced satellites and instruments, Airbus transforms geospatial data into actionable insights that support global efforts to combat climate change. With capabilities extending from short-term weather forecasting to comprehensive long-term climate monitoring, Airbus is at the forefront of addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change and enhancing our understanding of the planet.
SSOT FASat Charlie is Chile’s first high-resolution operational Earth observation satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space and launched in 2011. Known as "FASat-Charlie" in Chile, this agile satellite provides extremely high-quality imagery that supports a diverse range of applications, including mapping, agriculture, urban planning, military intelligence, and natural resource management. Built on the AstroBus-XS platform, SSOT enhances Chile's capabilities in risk assessment and disaster management by delivering precise optical observations. This innovative system exemplifies Airbus's commitment to providing advanced satellite solutions that empower nations to effectively monitor and manage their environments.
SSOT FASat Charlie is Chile’s first high-resolution operational Earth observation satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space and launched in 2011. Known locally as "FASat-Charlie," this agile satellite provides extremely high-quality imagery that enhances Chile's capabilities in various applications, including mapping, agriculture, urban planning, military intelligence, and natural resource management. Built on the AstroBus-XS platform, SSOT is designed to deliver precise optical observations, enabling effective risk assessment and disaster management. This innovative system exemplifies Airbus's commitment to advancing satellite technology and supporting countries in monitoring and managing their environments effectively.
PeruSat-1 is a high-resolution Earth observation satellite developed by Airbus Defence and Space, designed to enhance Peru's capabilities in monitoring natural resources, agriculture, urban development, and disaster management. Launched in 2016, this state-of-the-art satellite provides detailed imagery that supports various applications, including environmental monitoring and land use planning. Equipped with advanced optical sensors, PeruSat-1 delivers high-quality data that enables government agencies and organizations to make informed decisions based on accurate geospatial information. This satellite exemplifies Airbus's commitment to providing innovative solutions that empower nations to effectively manage their resources and respond to challenges in real time.
The Bartolomeo platform, located on the European Columbus Module of the International Space Station (ISS), offers easy access to low-Earth orbit for a variety of payloads. Designed by Airbus, Bartolomeo serves as the ISS's newest payload hosting platform, accommodating payloads starting from as small as 3U. It provides an all-in-one mission service that includes technical support for payload preparation, launch and installation, operational management, data transfer, and optional return to Earth. With available slots for booking, Bartolomeo enables researchers and organizations to efficiently conduct experiments and technology demonstrations in space, making it a valuable asset for advancing space exploration and innovation.
Starlab is the next-generation commercial space station being developed by Airbus in collaboration with Voyager Space and Japan's Mitsubishi Corporation, aimed at ensuring a continued human presence in low-Earth orbit following the International Space Station's retirement. Set to be operational by the end of this decade, Starlab will facilitate a seamless transition for microgravity science and research into a new era of commercial space exploration. This innovative space station is designed to serve a diverse global customer base, including space agencies, researchers, and businesses of all sizes, providing essential facilities for scientific experiments and technological advancements in microgravity. With its advanced capabilities, Starlab is positioned to play a crucial role in the future of space exploration and utilization.
The JUICE (JUpiter ICy moons Explorer) spacecraft, developed and built by Airbus for the European Space Agency, is set to explore Jupiter and its three largest icy moons: Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa. As the prime contractor since 2015, Airbus has coordinated a consortium of over 80 companies to bring this ambitious project to fruition. Launched in April 2023, JUICE is on an approximately eight-year journey to the Jovian system, where it will spend four years conducting detailed studies of these moons to assess their potential for hosting life. This mission aims to answer fundamental questions about planetary formation, the emergence of life, and the workings of our solar system, with significant discoveries anticipated by 2030.
