AUCKLAND, New Zealand & GOLD COAST, Australia – November 14, 2024
New Zealand-based space technology company, Frond Space Systems, in July successfully delivered a 10m2 MICRO dragsail system for the 100kg class ElaraSat mission (MMS-1) and has now secured a follow-up order for an additional system for Gilmour Space Technologies’ next mission.
The lightweight deorbiting solution completed all flight qualification testing for the ElaraSat mission and is ready for integration, scheduled for launch in 2025. Building on this achievement, Gilmour Space has placed an order for a second MICRO dragsail system for their subsequent mission, demonstrating confidence in Frond’s innovative space technology.
Quotes:
Mark Grimminck, Head of Satellites at Gilmour Space Technologies: “The addition of Frond Space Systems’ MICRO dragsail to our first ElaraSat missions highlights our mutual commitment to responsible space operations. It’s exciting to see Frond’s innovative solutions paving the way for a more sustainable future in space.”
Ben Taylor, CEO & Co-founder of Frond Space Systems: “This second order from Gilmour Space validates our technology’s market fit and commitment to deliver. We’re proud to strengthen our partnership with Gilmour Space and continue supporting responsible space practices through our deorbiting solutions.”
About Gilmour Space: Gilmour Space Technologies is a leading provider of Australian orbital launch services, delivering dedicated and rideshare solutions to global customers from Queensland, Australia. For more information about Gilmour’s launch and satellite programs, visit www.gspace.com or email launch@gspace.com.
About Frond Space Systems: A spin out of the University of Auckland’s Te Pūnaha Ātea Space Institute at the heart of New Zealand’s emergent and energetic space eco-system, Frond Space Systems are pioneering the future of deployable systems in space. Visit frond.space for more information.
Media Contacts:
Ben Taylor – CEO & Co-founder, Frond Space Systems – ben@frond.space
Michelle Gilmour – Head of Communications, Gilmour Space – michelle.gilmour@gspace.com