HawkEye 360, Inc., which is developing a radio frequency (RF) detection and mapping system using a constellation of small satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), announced that it selected Danish space components company GomSpace to provide the payload for its Pathfinder cluster satellite mission.
GomSpace is providing their flight-proven software-defined radio platforms and antennas to serve as the payload for HawkEye 360’s Pathfinder mission, which is scheduled for launch and testing in late 2017. By utilizing GomSpace’s expertise and product line in small-satellite radio and antenna technology, HawkEye 360 is moving quickly to develop one of the world’s first privately funded space-based global wireless monitoring systems.
HawkEye 360’s small satellite constellation aims to enable commercial applications such as allowing government and corporate customers to dynamically monitor transportation networks across air, land and sea. For government regulators, telecommunications companies and satellite broadcasters, HawkEye 360’s system is being designed to be able to monitor RF spectrum usage to identify areas of interference. The system could also help to detect and locate activated emergency beacons to improve response times in life-threatening situations.
“GomSpace has a strong, established set of small satellite components and payloads that have a proven space flight history and a record of technology innovation,” said Chris DeMay, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of HawkEye 360. “Selecting GomSpace marks an important step forward in our development of the on-orbit capabilities that will be able to serve government and commercial customers.”
Space-based detection of RF signals will allow HawkEye 360 to locate and characterize difficult-to-visualize wireless spectrum information in a more accurate and efficient manner when compared to terrestrial detection and image analysis. By taking RF data and turning it into actionable information, HawkEye 360 will be able to give commercial enterprises and governments better knowledge to help make critical decisions.
“We are excited to support HawkeEye 360 in their mission to launch the Pathfinder mission and to enable new business opportunities based on small satellites and our leading position within innovative radio payloads,” said Niels Buus, CEO of GomSpace.
About HawkEye 360
HawkEye 360 is developing a constellation of small satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) to generate reports on wireless signals that can be used to track and monitor global transportation networks, assist with emergencies, as well as other data analytics services. The company seeks to provide highly accurate maritime situational awareness, collecting information about vessels to create a wealth of current and historical data useful for commercial planning and monitoring, as well as emergency response. Similar data will be available for airborne and land-based transportation and logistics industries. HawkEye 360’s data processing technology was originally developed at Virginia Tech’s Hume Center for National Security and Technology. More information about HawkEye 360 can be found at www.he360.com .
About GomSpace A/S
GomSpace is a globally leading designer, integrator and manufacturer of high-end small satellites for customers in the academic, government and commercial markets. Our positions of strength include systems integration, small satellite subsystems and advanced miniaturised radio technology.
Our international team is devoted to understanding our customer’s requirements and deliver flawlessly.
We are listed in Stockholm (GOMX), headquartered in Denmark and we service our customers in more than 50 countries. Learn more: www.gomspace.com
