Tag: RPO
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What are Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) for satellites?
Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) are the coordinated maneuvers and control activities that bring one spacecraft near another orbital object and manage their relative motion so that inspection, servicing, capture or other close interactions can be performed safely. Rendezvous establishes the required orbital position and relative velocity; proximity operations control the spacecraft’s movement once it…
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Polish Startup Ares Shield to Protect Orbital Data Centers With High-Power Microwave Defense
Florida-based Lonestar Data Holdings has contracted Polish defense startup Ares Shield to protect its planned orbital data-center network, marking an unusual convergence of commercial space infrastructure and non-kinetic satellite defense. The agreement, announced Aug. 25, is valued at up to $6 million and initially covers three Lonestar satellites. Ares Shield plans to deliver the first…
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Rocket Lab Launches U.S. Space Force Mission in Under 17 Hours After Call-Up
Rocket Lab has successfully launched a responsive space mission for the U.S. Space Force, deploying a spacecraft less than 17 hours after receiving a launch order as part of the Victus Haze mission. The mission, conducted under the U.S. Space Force’s Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) program, lifted off aboard a Rocket Lab Electron rocket from…
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True Anomaly Completes Mission X-3 Tests, Advances Jackal Orbital Vehicle Toward Space Force Missions
True Anomaly has successfully completed all objectives for its Mission X-3 flight test campaign, marking a major milestone for the company’s autonomous orbital vehicle, Jackal, and clearing the final steps toward full operational commissioning. Mission X-3 represents the third and most advanced self-funded demonstration mission conducted by the Colorado-based aerospace company. The campaign focused on…
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Infinite Orbits Selects Open Cosmos for ‘Tom & Jerry’ Satellite Inspection Mission
European space companies Infinite Orbits and Open Cosmos have partnered on a new satellite mission designed to demonstrate rendezvous, proximity and inspection operations in low-Earth orbit (LEO). The mission, dubbed “Tom & Jerry,” will involve two satellites that will perform a series of maneuvering and inspection activities after launch, which is currently targeted for mid-2027.…