Pale Blue has been awarded a new contract with Yonsei University in South Korea to provide the Resistojet (0.5U sized water vapor) propulsion system for a pair of 6U satellites.
The propulsion system will be used to do formation flying for a laser crosslink system between the two smallsats in LEO as well as conduct optical communications. The laser crosslink payload employs a deployable, optical telescope to compensate for the compact bus capability of a typical CubeSat platform. With this novel design, a stable communication link can be achieved at a distance of up to 1000 km. The proposed data rate is at least 1 Gbps., which is a challenging objective given the efficient and low cost nature of the systems.
Asia is experiencing a rapid space industry growth and Pale Blue aims to boos its presence in in this region as well as contribute to the development of space technologies.this region as well as contribute to the development of space technologies. Throughout collaboration with Yonsei University, Pale Blue will expand the business by strengthening partnerships in Asia. The company will create mobility capabilities that are core to the space industry, while providing the waterwater–based propulsion systems to the global market.
“We are thrilled to work together with Pale Blue on this project. Our mission aims for demonstrating cutting edge laser communication, with orbital maneuvering and formation keeping playing a central role. These thrusters perfectly meet our requirements and offer the advantage of being not only environmentally friendly, but also free from regulatory constraints. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration in ou r future missions.” — Sang Young Park, Professor, Department of Astronomy, Yonsei University
“I am truly grateful for this opportunity to cooperate with Yonsei University on their project,” said . “I am sure our water based thrusters can contribute to the satellite’s formation control and establishment of their outstanding communication technology. l and establishment of their outstanding communication technology. We are honored to be selected, and continue to support Yonsei University going forward.” — Jun Asakawa, CEO and Co Founder, Pale Blue