New Zealand-based Frond Space Systems and Gilmour Space Technologies have joined forces to advance space sustainability through the provision of a cutting-edge dragsail system for Gilmour Space’s upcoming satellite mission.
The contract signifies a significant step towards responsible and sustainable space utilisation, aligning with regulatory requirements and industry best practices, Gilmour said in a news release.
The MICRO dragsail system, developed by Frond, is designed to be deployed at the conclusion of a satellite’s operational life to facilitate its deorbiting process.
This lightweight and compact device aims to increase drag and accelerate the satellite’s re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, thereby mitigating the risk of space debris and promoting long-term space sustainability.
Scheduled for launch in early 2025, Gilmour Space’s MMS-1 satellite mission will deploy a microsatellite to low Earth orbit.
Frond’s dragsail system will be integrated into the satellite’s design and activated upon mission completion, underscoring Gilmour Space’s commitment to responsible space practices.
Kody Cook, head of Satellites at Gilmour Space, highlighted the importance of innovative solutions like the MICRO dragsail system in meeting regulatory requirements and advancing sustainable space operations.
“Products like the MICRO dragsail system developed by Frond Space will be critical for meeting these requirements. It’s also a core part of our strategy to support the growth of the trans-Tasman supply chain and start-up ecosystem as we continue to develop future platforms,” Cook explained.
Meanwhile, Frond Space Systems’ CEO & Co-founder, Ben Taylor, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with Gilmour Space, underscoring the opportunity to showcase Frond’s pioneering space technology.
“We are proud to be part of the growing space industry collaboration across Australia and New Zealand, and look forward to working with Gilmour Space and other partners in the region and beyond,” remarked Taylor.
