When 34 Airbus OneWeb Satellites (OneWeb) launched onboard a Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazak
Puttin’ on the Hat
This was the first time that OneWeb launched 34 of its satellites. In February 2019, OneWeb successfully launched the first six broadband satellites. OneWeb is building a communications network with a constellation of low-Earth-orbit satellites that will provide connectivity to people around the world.
As a key OneWeb supplier, RUAG Space built the satellite dispenser, which functions as an interface between the Soyuz rocket and satellites. The dispenser is tailored to the need of a constellation like OneWeb, being able to deposit up to 36 satellites safely into space. “Our dispenser is super-light and includes state-of the art technology to safely place the satellites in orbit”, says RUAG Space Executive Vice President Peter Guggenbach. “With our products we are contributing to this important project, which will enhance communication around the world.”
Starting from the launch in February 2020, the RUAG built OneWeb dispenser will include a conical top structure, a “hat”, that has the capability to host up to four additional OneWeb satellites per mission. With its extensive know how RUAG has developed a unique and cost effective solution that enables OneWeb to maximize the number of satellites per Soyuz launch. The top structure was developed within the contract with Arianespace for the OneWeb program.
RUAG dispensers, produced in Sweden, are especially suitable for spacecraft constellations such as OneWeb, where a high number of spacecraft need to be placed in orbit within a short time frame. At its lower interface the dispenser structure is bolted to the launch vehicle upper stage. Each satellite is attached to the dispenser in separation nodes. The RUAG dispenser provides a stiff connection in each node during launch, a safe release and an accurate separation provided by the four separation nuts and spring units.
“We are proud of our global RUAG Space team who worked collaboratively with our customer to get this mission off the ground, and we are all excited to see the launch of this incredible constellation,” says Guggenbach.
Collaborative Product Supplier
RUAG Space manufactures the satellite panels used by OneWeb Satellites in
In Austria, RUAG Space produced the multi-layer thermal insulation which protects the OneWeb satellites against the cold and heat in space from approx. minus 150°C to plus 150°C (-238 degrees F to 302 degrees F). The insulation consists of several layers of metal-evaporated polyimide film. RUAG Space in Austria also built handle equipment and containers that OneWeb uses to transport the assembled satellites to the different launch sites as well as the corresponding handling at the launch sites. The high-tech, custom satellite containers are used to transport the satellites to the worldwide rocket launch centers. The containers are equipped with a specifically designed damping systems and climate-control.
When fully operational, OneWeb will aid the nearly four billion people around the world who currently have no access to reliable internet. The OneWeb project will allow people—particularly in developing and newly industrialized nations—tremendous new opportunities for information, education and economic growth.
About RUAG Space
RUAG Space is the leading supplier to the space industry in Europe, and has a growing presence in the United States. In total, RUAG Space has about 1,300 employees across six countries. RUAG Space develops and manufactures products for satellites and launch vehicles—playing a key role both in the institutional and commercial space market.
RUAG International
RUAG International is a Swiss technology group focusing on the aerospace industry. Based in Zurich (Switzerland) and with production sites in 14 countries, the company is divided into four areas: Space, Aerostructures, MRO International and Ammotec. With its strategic focus on aerospace, the company will consist of the two segments Aerostructures and Space in the medium term. RUAG Space is Europe’s leading supplier of products used in the aerospace industry. RUAG Aerostructures is a global first-tier supplier in aircraft structure construction. RUAG International employs around 6,000 people, two thirds of whom work outside Switzerland.
VIDEOS
Video: A typical communications satellite has up to 5,000 inserts added by hand. Thanks to the Automated Potting Machine from RUAG Space the production time was reduced from 30 minutes per insert down to just 90 seconds. LINK: https://youtu.
Dispenser video: The RUAG Space dispenser is tailored to the need of a mega constellation like OneWeb, being able to deposit 34 satellites safely into space. LINK: https://youtu.be/
