Millennium Space Systems has inked a contract for launch services with NanoRacks LLC of Webster, Texas, to launch its ALTAIR-1 Pathfinder satellite into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) this summer via cargo resupply to the International Space Station (ISS). The ALTAIR platform will demonstrate and flight qualify key technologies developed in house by Millennium Space in Guidance, Navigation & Control (GN&C); Avionics & Flight Computing; Advanced Onboard Processing; Electrical Power & Distribution; and Software Defined Radio Communications. The ALTAIR platform provides “mind numbing performance in a small form factor”, advancing DARPA’s original investment into SeeMe, and fueled by internal company IRAD, focusing on our customer needs into next generation high performance space systems for LEO, GEO, and deep space missions that are responsive, resilient, high performance and affordable.
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Commenting on the NanoRacks flight manifest, Matt Baker, Millennium’s ALTAIR development lead, “Our customers will greatly benefit from the accelerated risk burndown realized by this early on-orbit test and characterization for their missions as we enter into larger volume production for our ALTAIR-2 drone vehicles. We’re elated to be working with NanoRacks to seize the opportunity of this early and important technology pathfinder demonstration.” Added Eric Drucker, Chief Engineer for ALTAIR, “as we continue to vertically integrate the company, we’re credibly able to offer our customers a lot more for a lot less – this near-term flight opportunity for TRL (Technology Readiness Level) risk burndown, coupled with our ongoing laboratory parts & component qualification and life testing enable us to realize the ALTAIR flight development “triad” – low cost, fast delivery, and low technical risk.”
“We are delighted to be able to utilize the unique advantages of the International Space Station for the Millennium Mission,” adds Jeffrey Manber, Chief Executive Officer of NanoRacks, LLC. “And to do so in a timely and cost-efficient manner. ISS has emerged as key component of our future needs in space.”
Millennium Space Systems is a privately held, employee-owned company founded in November 2001, providing alternate, relevant and affordable solutions to today’s aerospace challenges. The company designs flight systems and develops associated mission and system solutions for National Security Space, Department of Defense, NASA & Civil Space and commercial customers.
More about Millennium Space Systems and ALTAIR: www.millennium-space.com
More about NanoRacks LLC: http://nanoracks.com
More about DARPA’s SeeMe Program: http://www.darpa.mil/program/space-enabled-effects-for-military-engagements
