Satellite Launch

The process of launching a satellite involves several complex stages, including designing and building the satellite, preparing it for launch, and actually launching it into space.

Here is a general overview of the process:

1. Satellite design and development: The first step is to design and build the satellite itself. This involves selecting the appropriate instruments and equipment, designing the satellite’s structure and systems, and testing and validating the design to ensure it can withstand the rigors of space.
2. Launch vehicle selection: Once the satellite is built, the next step is to select a launch vehicle that can carry it into space. The launch vehicle is typically a rocket, and the selection process involves considering factors such as the satellite’s weight and size, the desired orbit, and the capabilities of available launch vehicles.
3. Launch preparations: Before the launch, the satellite must be prepared for the journey. This includes testing and verifying the satellite’s systems, fueling it, and encapsulating it in a protective fairing to shield it from the heat and pressure of the launch.
4. Launch day: On launch day, the rocket is transported to the launch pad, where it is fueled and prepared for liftoff. Once the launch window opens, the rocket’s engines ignite, and it lifts off into space.
5. Orbit insertion: Once the rocket reaches space, it must insert the satellite into the desired orbit. This is typically done using a series of thruster burns to adjust the satellite’s speed and trajectory.
6. Satellite commissioning: Once the satellite is in orbit, it must be commissioned, which involves turning on and testing all of its systems and instruments to ensure they are functioning properly.
7. Operations and maintenance: Finally, the satellite must be operated and maintained while it is in orbit. This involves monitoring its health and performance, adjusting its orbit as needed, and downloading data from its instruments to ground stations on Earth.

Launching a satellite is a complex and challenging process that requires the coordination of many different teams and organizations, from the satellite manufacturer to the launch provider to the ground station operators. However, with careful planning and execution, satellites can be successfully launched into space to perform a wide range of important missions.

Our small satellite launch service provides satellites up to 135kg to be placed into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), this service will be available from the latter end of 2024 so please register interest.