SLINGSHOT1

Additional information SLINGSHOT1

Program named Slingshot, which looks to advance on-orbit experiments using modular and autonomous technologies on next-generation satellite systems. In essence, Slingshot looks to simplify the architecture with open standards and plug-and-play interfaces to streamline bus-to-payload, satellite-to-satellite, and space-to-ground communications.\r\nA key feature of the Slingshot platform is the use of SatCat5, an open source mixed-media ethernet switch architecture that enables a variety of devices to communicate on the same network. Unlike other existing standards, such as CAN and SpaceWire, SatCat5 is able to simultaneously provide high throughput and low-power consumption using ethernet technologies and an end-to-end payload development kit.\r\nSlingshot also uses one common bus-to-payload interface, providing a reusable standard that can eliminate the ad-hoc proliferation of complex, dissimilar protocols that have historically bogged down connectivity and driven up costs.\r\nSlated for launch in early 2022, the Slingshot 1 mission aims to prove the feasibility of providing a standard interface for multiple payloads on a single spacecraft flying in low Earth orbit. In addition to providing access to an on-orbit space test environment, the mission will demonstrate the capability of the SatCat5 ethernet standard, which would allow developers to employ commercial tools and open-source code from the extensive ethernet ecosystem.\r\nIn a further bid for increased satellite autonomy, the Slingshot 1 mission will also test the functionality of:\r\n VERTIGO ?  A modular attitude control system prototype that can enable satellites to point at targets on earth. \r\n BLINKER ?  A GPS transponder for space traffic management. \r\n HYPER ?  A hydrogen peroxide thruster. \r\n LASERCOMM ?  A next-generation space/ground lasercom downlink.

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