Image: Space launch vehicle (Archival photo by Roscosmos)
The Russian private aerospace firm, SR Space, is making considerable progress on its satellite development initiatives, with five new spacecraft actively undergoing production. Oleg Mansurov, the company`s CEO, recently announced that the vital components of these satellites` onboard systems have moved beyond the conceptual stage and are now fully manufactured.
Mansurov detailed the specific elements that have been successfully fabricated. These include a sophisticated onboard computing unit integrated with a GPS/GLONASS receiver for precise navigation, an efficient electrical power supply system featuring advanced battery modules, a robust flywheel engine block essential for attitude control, and a high-accuracy sun sensor for orientation in space.
A significant advantage of SR Space`s design philosophy, as emphasized by Mansurov, lies in the innovative architecture and compact arrangement of these onboard systems. This allows the satellites to accommodate more powerful and higher-performing payloads, such as advanced, high-resolution cameras, all while maintaining a notably low overall mass and a compact physical footprint. Such efficiencies are crucial for reducing both manufacturing costs and the expenses associated with launching the satellites into orbit, ultimately delivering superior capabilities to end-users and maximizing their value.
This forward momentum in satellite production occurs amidst ongoing legal challenges for the company. SR Space was recently declared bankrupt by a court. However, Mansurov has publicly affirmed the holding`s strong commitment to contesting this ruling, expressing confidence that the bankruptcy proceedings will be terminated once the company successfully meets its outstanding financial obligations.
SR Space operates as a comprehensive Russian aerospace holding, comprising specialized subsidiaries. Its core activities span various advanced space technologies, including in-depth big data analytics, the development and deployment of ultra-light launch vehicles and small spacecraft. Furthermore, the company is dedicated to establishing constellations of satellites for a range of critical applications, which include Earth remote sensing (ERS), comprehensive environmental and climate monitoring (with a particular emphasis on detecting greenhouse gas emissions), and providing reliable satellite communication services for a wide array of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth