Spaceflight to Launch Payloads to Two Orbits

Spaceflight Inc. Expands Sherpa Capabilities with Dual Orbit Deployment

Spaceflight Inc. announced on Tuesday a significant advancement in its launch service offerings. The company will, for the first time, deliver client spacecraft to two different orbital locations.

This expansion aims to enhance the functionality of the Sherpa line of orbital transfer vehicles. It provides increased flexibility for satellite deployment.

The Rise of Orbital Transfer Vehicles

Orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs) are increasingly utilized to facilitate satellite positioning. They offer a cost-effective solution for smaller space companies.

These companies can avoid the expense and weight associated with independent propulsion systems. Furthermore, OTVs enable cost-sharing, mirroring the approach of SpaceX’s rideshare program.

Introducing Sherpa-LTC1

Spaceflight, headquartered in Seattle, is implementing this dual-orbit deployment using a newly developed Sherpa space tug. This tug is equipped with a chemical propulsion system.

Designated the Sherpa-LTC1, it represents the third distinct Sherpa OTV introduced by the company within the past year. Previous iterations include the electric propulsion-equipped Sherpa-LTE and the Sherpa-LT.

Mission Details: Transporter-3

The Sherpa-LTC1 is slated for launch aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 3 mission. This launch is scheduled from Cape Canaveral, Florida, in January of the coming year.

The space tug will deploy a total of 13 customer spacecraft across two distinct orbits. Initially, nine smallsat payloads will be released, followed by a maneuver to a lower altitude for the deployment of four CubeSats.

Customers on Board

The mission’s customer roster includes prominent names in the space industry. These include Capella Space, Umbra Space, Lynk Global, Inc., and Kleos Space.

Additional customers are NASA, the Czech Aerospace Research Centre (in collaboration with Spacemanic), Space Products and Innovation (SPiN), and the Portland State Aerospace Society.

“Green” Propulsion and Future Capabilities

The Sherpa-LTC1 utilizes a “green” propulsion system developed by Benchmark Space Systems. This system is designed to enable swift orbital transfers for a variety of spacecraft sizes.

According to Grant Bonin, SVP of business development at Spaceflight, this is just the beginning. He stated that these capabilities will be vital for accessing orbits beyond LEO and for developing in-space transportation and mission services.

Looking Ahead: Sherpa-ES

In September, Spaceflight announced plans to launch another Sherpa vehicle, the Sherpa-ES. This vehicle will be utilized on a lunar flyby mission scheduled for next year.