A pioneering pathfinder mission testing inflatable-rigidizable antenna technology in space, while advancing miniaturized aerospace systems and collecting scientific data from the Sun.
Sulfur
What is this mission about?
This mission focuses on testing an experimental inflatable-rigidizable antenna designed for long-wavelength radio observations. The CubeSat will demonstrate the deployment of a 40 MHz antenna prototype, with each antenna arm measuring 1,728 mm, while also serving as a platform for testing novel space technologies.
What is the goal with this mission?
The goal of the mission is twofold:
the satellite is a test platform for novel technologies in antenna deployment and miniaturization of aerospace components.
The second goal is to endure the harsh environment of space for 2 years and collect scientific data from the Sun.
Interesting facts
This will be the longest wavelength antenna deployed from a CubeSat up to this date.
(Current record is lambda = 2.56 m of the ECHOES IOD-2 mission).
This will be the first time that a curing-resin rigidized inflatable-rigidizable composite structure is ever deployed in space.
