Aerospace giant Lockheed Martin has showcased the ability of its In-space Upgrade Satellite System (LM LINUSS) in being able to upgrade small satellites in outer space.
This particular satellite system is designed to be able to address the growing problem of satellites being abandoned due to malfunction, as a result of the exorbitant cost of launching satellites. Comprising special 'CubeSats,' the In-space Upgrade Satellite System carries out close-proximity operations with a view to ultimately carrying out servicing operations.
Johnathon Caldwell, vice-president and general manager of the military space division over at Lockheed Martin, stated that the 'LM LINUSS' exemplifies the importance of the aerospace giant putting resources into play in real-world innovation. "Agile development, cloud-based operations, and smallsat platforms came together at speed and in orbit, where the real test of technology occurs," said Caldwell. "Through the accomplishments of LM LINUSS, Lockheed Martin is pioneering how future small and medium class missions will be upgraded on-orbit, and continuing to develop critical, breakthrough technologies that keep our customers ahead of ready."
Image Credit: Lockheed Martin
Why This Trend Is Growing
- In-space Satellite Servicing
- The LM LINUSS showcases how small satellites can be upgraded and serviced to address satellite abandonment and exorbitant costs of launches.
- Cubesat Technology
- The use of CubeSats in the LM LINUSS demonstrates the potential of small and versatile satellites for future space operations.
- Agile Development for Space Technology
- Lockheed Martin's approach of agile development and cloud-based operations in space technology can lead to more efficient and effective solutions for satellite servicing and upgradation.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Aerospace Manufacturing
- The use of LM LINUSS and CubeSat technology can disrupt the aerospace manufacturing industry by introducing versatile and efficient satellite servicing solutions.
- Satellite Launch Services
- In-space servicing and upgradation can disrupt the traditional satellite launch services industry by reducing the need for costly and frequent launches due to satellite malfunction.
- Cloud Computing Services
- The use of cloud-based operations in space technology can lead to the development of cloud computing services specifically catering to the space industry, facilitating more cost-effective development, and deployment of space solutions.
