Today, Terran Orbital Corporation, a pioneer in satellite-based solutions for aerospace and defense industries, unveiled the upcoming launch of its Pathfinder-R (PTD-R) and Pathfinder-4 (PTD-4) spacecraft. These 6U Triumph class space vehicles are slated to take off aboard the Transporter-11 Rideshare mission with SpaceX from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on August 16. The spacecraft form part of NASA’s Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) series, designed to test new technologies’ capabilities in low-Earth orbit.
The planned PTD missions will showcase and validate innovative subsystem technologies scalable for future science and exploration missions. Terran Orbital’s Triumph spacecraft bus and advanced MK II avionics platform serve as the core for these Pathfinder missions, exhibiting the company’s commitment to space exploration. Marc Bell, Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Terran Orbital, expressed determination to surpass expectations as they venture forth into the cosmos.
Revolutionary Technological Advancements
PTD-4 will experiment with a novel solar panel system developed by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Known as LISA-T, this cutting-edge system boasts a lightweight design and the ability to unfold in space, unveiling a sizable solar panel integrated with an antenna. The mission’s focus includes evaluating solar panel deployment, power generation, and antenna performance in the space environment.
Innovative Exploration Objectives
On the other hand, PTD-R carries Lawrence Livermore National Lab’s Deep Purple payload, comprising two monolithic telescopes for UV and VIS/SWIR imaging, along with a compact electronics module and a lightweight carbon-composite optical housing and radiator. Its primary missions encompass observing UV and SWIR light from high-UV stars and the Milky Way’s galactic bulge, alongside demonstrating space domain awareness.
Mission management and integration services for the two payloads were provided by rideshare services provider SEOPS, ensuring a seamless venture into space for the cutting-edge spacecraft.
Exploring the Future of Space Vehicles
To delve deeper into Terran Orbital’s industry-leading space vehicle platforms and comprehensive mission support capabilities, visit the Terran Orbital Space Vehicle Platforms page.
About Terran Orbital
Terran Orbital is a prominent manufacturer of satellite products catering primarily to aerospace and defense sectors. The company delivers end-to-end satellite solutions, encompassing satellite design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on-orbit support, tailored to meet the requirements of discerning military, civil, and commercial clients. For more information, visit the Terran Orbital website.
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