US company Rocket Lab has received the microsatellite separation system from Ruag Space for its small launch vehicle (SLV) Electron to ensure a smooth separation in orbit.
The agreement was signed last September at the 2018 SmallSat Conference, under which, Rocket Lab selected Ruag to deliver the 15in microsatellite separation system for future missions of its Electron SLV.
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The system will act as an adapter between a satellite and a rocket. It will have its first Electron launch from the Mahia Peninsula, New Zealand, between 4 May and 17 May.
Under the US Air Force’s Rapid Agile Launch Initiative on the STP-27RD mission, Electron will carry three small satellites, including the S-CLASS small spacecraft platform, into orbit.
The S-CLASS platform was built by York Space Systems and will demonstrate four different payload technologies.
Ruag Space CEO Peter Guggenbach said: “Our separation system product range meets the needs of all launchers – big and small.
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By GlobalData“We are proud that the result of our partnership with Rocket Lab and York Space Systems will now be taking its first flight, and we look forward to further collaborations.”
The fully carbon-composite Electron launch vehicle is powered by 3D-printed, electric pump-fed engines.
Ruag Space offers satellite separations using payload adapter systems, dispensers and separation systems.
The company’s systems are currently used for major commercial and institutional launches in the US and Europe.
In addition to Rocket Lab, Raug has partnered with York Space Systems to supply separation systems for the S-CLASS spacecraft platform and developed a customised solution for York’s Harbinger Mission.
