NASA Launches DiskSat Technology Demo to Low Earth Orbit

NASA has successfully launched its DiskSat technology demonstration mission, aimed at revolutionizing small spacecraft design. This mission seeks to validate the capabilities of a flat, disk-shaped platform that promises to enhance performance and lower costs for future space ventures.

DiskSat Launch Details

The DiskSat spacecraft was launched at 12:03 a.m. EST on December 18, 2023. It took off from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 2, located on Wallops Island, Virginia.

Features of DiskSat

DiskSat represents a significant innovation in spacecraft architecture. Each DiskSat measures 40 inches in diameter and is one inch thick, comparable in size to a small coffee table.

• Diameter: 40 inches (1 meter)
• Thickness: 1 inch (2.5 centimeters)

This unique design is suitable for operations in low Earth orbit, facilitating enhanced Earth imaging and improved communications with lower latency.

Technological Highlights

Equipped with an electric propulsion system, each DiskSat is capable of altering its orbit, which allows for ongoing maintenance and operational flexibility. The mission will test both the spacecraft’s performance and a special dispenser mechanism that safely holds four DiskSat units during launch and deploys them in orbit.

Supporting Organizations

The Aerospace Corporation, based in Chantilly, Virginia, leads the design and development efforts for DiskSat. Funding for this mission comes from various sources, including:

• NASA’s Small Spacecraft & Distributed Systems program
• U.S. Space Force’s Rocket Systems Launch Program (RSLP)
• Department of War Space Test Program (STP)

The launch services are provided by Rocket Lab USA, Inc., located in Long Beach, California, while NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility offers essential support including tracking and safety services.

Future Implications

DiskSat aims to broaden the scope of small spacecraft missions, benefiting NASA, commercial entities, government agencies, and academia. It aligns with long-term objectives for space exploration, particularly concerning missions to the Moon and Mars.

This mission is expected to foster greater innovation in U.S. space exploration and commercial opportunities, allowing mission designers to achieve goals more efficiently and affordably.

For media inquiries related to this mission, members of the press are encouraged to contact the NASA Ames newsroom for further information.