Effective deorbiting for Microsatellites in LEO
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Configurable to your mission
Low impact
Low mass (<2kg) system with configuration options allowing for power line activation, internal watchdog, self-contained batteries and independent RF access
10m2 deployed area
Optimised for Microsatellites
10m2 sail provides effective deorbiting for 50-200kg satellites operating in LEO without adding unnecessary materials and mission complexity
Environmentally qualified systems
Mission assurance
Qualified to GEVS levels (14.1Grms) with -30°C to +60°C operational temperature range requiring minimal spacecraft interfaces
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I worry about what happens to my satellite after the mission?
Recent changes in US FCC policy requires all satellites licensed or launched from the US to deorbit within 5 years of end of mission. Responsibile operation and disposal by satellite operators is essential for continued use of space.
Why would I use a dragsail rather than a propulsion system?
The dragsail system is robust to spacecraft anomalies that may compromise the ability to deorbit with propulsion systems, such as power or attitude control anomalies, at a significantly lower cost.
Surely increasing the area of the satellite will increase the chance of collision?
If we assume a static population of objects in orbit, the probability of a collision will indeed be approximately the same for a satellite equipped with a sail as one without. However, the population of orbital objects is increasing significantly, such that it is better to deorbit sooner; and moreover, a collision with thin film sail material has significantly lower damage and debris generation potential.
How long will my satellite take to deorbit?
Every mission is different, with deorbit time depending on orbit, spacecraft mass and solar cycle conditions. Frond offer a free non-obligation pre-purchase assessment to ensure our product is right for you.
But with a deployed sail, the satellite may not maintain attitude control to maximise drag?
All our calculations used in system design assume a random tumbling condition of the spacecraft to ensure compliance in worst case conditions. Any aero-stabilitation or attitude control that may occur in operation is a bonus!
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