| Project Detail |
In-space manufacturing (ISM) is the key for overcoming the “tyranny of launch”, i.e. the restriction that all space (sub)systems are pre-built on earth and thus must be made to withstand the extreme mechanical loads at the launch of the rocket all while fitting into tight volumetric restrictions. ISM will save material and circumvent the limits in dimensions and mass. DCUBED leverages ISM for making solar arrays for satellites directly in space. This is especially important for small satellites (SmallSat), such as in internet-from-space constellations, to satisfy increasingly high power demands at a fraction of the cost of conventional solar arrays. SmallSats play a big role in the growing NewSpace economy and the global space market, which is expected to reach $ 1879B by 2032. With our advanced ISM technology for building solar arrays in-orbit we will become technology and market leader based in Europe, thus ensuring European competitiveness and non-dependence in space technologies. |
