MDA selects Honeywell to provide satellite control systems for its Aurora product line
PHOENIX - Honeywell in Phoenix announced that its satellite Attitude Control System components will be by Brampton, Ontario's MDA Space Ltd. in its Aurora product line, which focuses on transitioning satellite technology from analog to digital, including for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations.
Under the agreement, Honeywell will supply Reaction Wheel Assemblies, 3-Axis Space Rate Sensors, and Magnetometer Units for MDA's satellite Attitude Control Systems. These systems are critical for maintaining the orientation and positioning of satellites, ensuring effective communication signals and solar power generation.
MDA’s Aurora technology, which integrates Honeywell’s products, will support Telesat Lightspeed, a global LEO satellite network aimed at providing high-speed, enterprise-grade connectivity.
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"Our relationship with MDA Space highlights our commitment to innovation in the rapidly expanding LEO satellite industry,” said Marina Mississian, Senior Director at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. "Our work with MDA Space pushes the boundaries of what is possible in space-based communication systems."
These satellites utilize innovative digital payload technologies that support various non-geostationary orbits and frequency bands. Dynamic in-orbit reconfiguration allows for optimized capacity delivery and enhanced quality of service, while significantly improving power efficiency.
The product line features digital beamforming-enabled electronically steered direct radiating arrays. These arrays offer direct RF conversion and beam hopping capabilities, ensuring compliance with DVB standards and delivering precise, adaptable coverage to meet diverse communication needs.
Aurora includes a sophisticated constellation software suite comprising onboard flight telecom software, a real-time digital payload simulator, and a scalable network manager. This suite provides advanced operational capabilities for managing and simulating satellite constellations in real-time.
The satellite platform is tailored for large-scale constellations, designed to integrate seamlessly with digital payloads. It is optimized for high-volume production, ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness.
