ORU BASED ON BUILDING BLOCKS FOR ADVANCED ASSEMBLY OF SPACE SYSTEMS

Project Information

ORU-BOAS

Grant agreement ID: 101082078

DOI

10.3030/101082078

Project closed

EC signature date 4 October 2022

Start date 1 January 2023

End date 31 December 2024

Funded under

• Digital, Industry and Space

Total cost

€ 1 969 335,00

EU contribution

€ 1 969 335,00

Coordinated by

SENER AEROESPACIAL SOCIEDAD ANONIMA
Spain

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - ORU-BOAS (ORU BASED ON BUILDING BLOCKS FOR ADVANCED ASSEMBLY OF SPACE SYSTEMS)

Reporting period: 2023-01-01 to 2024-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The ORU-BOAS system brings modularity to satellite construction, servicing, and assembly. By leveraging plug-and-play modules, it reduces costs, extends mission lifespans, and adapts to diverse mission needs. ORU-BOAS has developed the following features:

- Modular System: ORU-BOAS offers a flexible, modular architecture for satellites, enabling straightforward assembly, servicing, and upgrades in orbit.

- Cost-Effective: By using interchangeable modules, ORU-BOAS significantly reduces the cost of space missions, making space more accessible and sustainable.

- Adaptable: The system is designed to support a wide range of mission types and payloads, ensuring compatibility with various space applications.

- Plug-and-Play Approach: Similar to an AppStore model, the system allows payloads and components to be swapped in and out with ease, offering greater flexibility for future space missions.

- Extended Lifespan: In-orbit servicing and upgrades help extend the lifespan of satellites and space infrastructure, reducing the need for costly new launches.

- In-Orbit Manufacturing & Assembly: ORU-BOAS enables in-space manufacturing and modular assembly, transforming how satellites and space systems are built and maintained.

- Sustainable Space Operations: The system supports reusable space components, contributing to long-term sustainability and reducing space debris.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The development of this modular satellite system has achieved significant milestones across all phases, from concept to validation. By focusing on scalable designs, modularity, and seamless integration, the program has advanced satellite technology to meet diverse mission requirements.

- System Requirements and Concept: System Requirements Review (SRR) validated mission requirements and technical readiness goals.

- Preliminary Design Phase: Designed a scalable ORU platform and payloads with interchangeable modules. Completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR), refining modularity for diverse missions.

- Critical Design Review (CDR) validated detailed system designs. Defined interfaces (SIROM) for seamless integration and established the Design and Development specification for Satellite Construction Kit (DSSCK).

- Manufacturing and Testing Phase: Breadboard modules for key systems were manufactured, including MEPS3 power systems and Data Handling Systems (MIA). Completed Manufacturing Readiness Review (MRR) and Test Readiness Review (TRR).

- Validation Phase: Simulated free-flying and module attachment in rendezvous conditions. Demonstrated module interchangeability and autonomous docking using robotic arms.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

Revolutionary Advances / State-of-the-Art Transformation

• Moving from rigid satellite designs to modular, flexible systems.

• Integration of AppStore-inspired payload selection, enabling adaptable mission configurations.

ORUBOAS concepts and TRLs

ORUBOAS with SIROM CAD model

ORUBOAS LOGO