First deployed satellite from space platform opens new prospects in space logistics
On March 6, the French company Exotrail announced that it had successfully deployed its first satellite from an orbital vehicle. The satellite, called EXO-0, was deployed from the Spacevan-001 orbital vehicle on February 28. Spacevan-001 was delivered to sun-synchronous orbit as part of the SpaceX Transporter-9 mission last November.
Exotrail — a French startup that initially focused on developing satellite engines and software. The company developed the Spacevan-001 orbital vehicle to provide delivery services, allowing customers to take advantage of more affordable shared launch opportunities.
«For Exotrail, today is a historic moment that confirms our ambitions to become a world leader in space logistics», — said the company's executive director Jean-Luc Maria.
The satellite deployment process follows extensive testing of the orbital vehicle following its November launch. «We aimed to achieve complete control and full functionality of the satellite before its deployment. This is a new platform that requires a phased LEOP [launch and early operation]», — Exotrail representative Lena Montes said.
The EXO-0 satellite carries a payload for Airbus Defense and Space. This is a device that, using a central rotor wheel and magnets, allows you to dampen satellite maneuvers in the event of loss of orientation. Airbus plans to use this technology on future satellites to facilitate their operation during active space debris removal missions after their service life has expired.
Exotrail plans to continue operating the Spacevan-001 orbital vehicle. In particular, carrying out additional tests, as well as placing a payload from Veoware — a Belgian startup developing torque control gyroscopes (CMG) and reaction wheels.
In addition to deploying satellites in low Earth orbit, Exotrail is developing a version of the vehicle that will carry small satellites into geostationary orbit. The first launch of this modification is expected in 2026.