Orion Energy Systems Achieves Milestone with DARPA Ouija Program Test Readiness Review
- Orion Space Solutions completed a test readiness review for the DARPA Ouija program, set to launch in summer 2025.
- The Ouija program's nanosatellite will study the ionosphere and HF noise with advanced sensors for valuable data collection.
- Orion aims to lead in the small satellite industry, emphasizing collaboration and innovation in space exploration and technology.
Orion Space Solutions Advances Space Exploration with Successful Test Readiness Review for DARPA Ouija Program
Orion Space Solutions, a subsidiary of Arcfield, announces a significant milestone with the completion of a test readiness review (TRR) for the DARPA Ouija program, which is set to launch in late summer 2025. This program, initiated in 2022, represents a groundbreaking step forward in space exploration and data collection. The Ouija program aims to deploy a nanosatellite designed for long-duration operations in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), enabling comprehensive studies of the ionosphere and high-frequency (HF) noise environments. Equipped with advanced sensors—including Langmuir Probes, RF Impedance Probes, HF Sounders, Atomic Oxygen Sensors, Science Magnetometers, Floating Potential Probes, and Accelerometers—the satellite seeks to gather unprecedented data from the ionosphere's F2 layer while validating near real-time HF propagation predictions.
The completion of the TRR marks a crucial phase in the program's development, confirming the nanosatellite's readiness for VLEO conditions. Chad Fish, Orion's president and general manager, underscores the team's dedication and expertise in achieving this pivotal milestone. The focus now shifts to conducting environmental tests and calibration processes before the planned launch. This endeavor highlights the importance of rigorous testing and preparation in the aerospace sector, ensuring that the satellite operates effectively in the challenging conditions of space. As the team collaborates with partners like STR, Skeyeon, Utah State University, and Raytheon BCT, the excitement builds around the potential scientific advancements that the Ouija program will deliver.
Kevin Kelly, Arcfield's chairman and CEO, emphasizes the Ouija program as a significant leap in space technology and research, reinforcing the nation's technological edge in a competitive global landscape. The program not only aims to enhance understanding of ionospheric dynamics and HF propagation but also positions Orion Space Solutions as a leader in the small satellite industry. By translating complex scientific data into actionable knowledge, Orion continues to play a pivotal role in addressing real-world problems through innovative space physics applications. As the launch date approaches, the aerospace community eagerly anticipates the insights that the Ouija program will provide.
In addition to its groundbreaking work on the Ouija program, Orion Space Solutions emphasizes its commitment to fostering collaboration within the scientific community. By partnering with esteemed institutions and organizations, Orion seeks to drive forward advancements in satellite technology and data analytics. This collaborative approach ensures that the insights gained from the Ouija program will not only benefit scientific research but also have practical applications across various sectors.
As Orion prepares for the upcoming launch, the company remains focused on its mission to lead in the small satellite industry. The successful TRR for the Ouija program reinforces Orion's reputation for innovation and excellence, positioning it to make significant contributions to the future of space exploration and data acquisition. For more information on Orion's initiatives, interested parties can visit orion.arcfield.com.