#United States #DARPA #Orion Space Solutions #Chantilly #Ouja Program

Orion Space Solutions Takes a Giant Leap in Space Exploration

In a momentous stride for space exploration, Orion Space Solutions, a subsidiary of Arcfield, has successfully passed a test readiness review (TRR) for its participation in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Ouija program focused on very low Earth orbit (VLEO) missions. This milestone, achieved on June 17, 2025, signifies a turning point in the way scientific data will be collected in the near-Earth atmosphere and underscores Orion's commitment to advancing aerospace technology.

The Ouija program, which was kicked off in 2022, aims to push the boundaries of our understanding of the ionosphere—the region of Earth's upper atmosphere that is crucial for radio communications and satellite navigation. The innovation at the core of this mission is the Ouija nanosatellite, engineered specifically for prolonged operation in VLEO. This small satellite is outfitted with an array of advanced sensors and instruments designed to measure various atmospheric parameters, with a focus on collecting data about the ionosphere’s F2 layer—one of the highest altitudes where ionospheric electrons exist.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Vast Data Collection

The suite of instruments aboard the Ouija nanosatellite includes

• - Langmuir Probes: These devices will measure the electron density and temperature, providing crucial data on the ionospheric conditions.
• - RF Impedance Probes: Designed to assess the electromagnetic environment, these probes will help scientists understand how radio waves propagate through the ionosphere.
• - High-Frequency (HF) Sounders: These instruments will analyze HF communication channels, facilitating better predictions of HF propagation.
• - Atomic Oxygen Sensors: These will gather data on atomic oxygen presence, which is vital for understanding atmospheric chemistry in VLEO.
• - Science Magnetometers: Used for measuring magnetic fields, aiding in the understanding of interactions between the ionosphere and space weather.
• - Floating Potential Probes and Accelerometers: These will monitor the electrostatic charge environment and motion of the nanosatellite, respectively.

The mission's objectives are ambitious, aiming to quantify the HF noise environment in space, gather unprecedented data, and validate real-time HF propagation predictions. The insights gained could revolutionize radio communication and navigational technologies, marking a significant advancement in aerospace engineering and atmospheric science.

A Testament to Teamwork and Expertise

Chad Fish, president and general manager of Orion, expressed pride in achieving the TRR, emphasizing that this milestone illustrates the team's dedication and technical capability. "This milestone brings us one step closer to revolutionizing our understanding of the ionosphere and HF propagation. We're excited to lead this groundbreaking mission that will push the boundaries of space exploration and data collection in VLEO," he stated.

During the TRR, the Orion team laid out the status of the nanosatellite's assembly, detailing the preparations and plans for forthcoming environmental testing and calibration prior to launch. The collective effort is complemented by contributions from a network of partners, including STR, Skeyeon, Utah State University, and Raytheon BCT, demonstrating the collaborative nature of this pioneering mission.

Looking Ahead: Final Preparations for Launch

As the project progresses, Orion is now focused on completing the final preparations for the space vehicle's launch, slated for late summer 2025. The Ouija program not only represents a leap forward in technological capabilities but also a major step in scientific research, promising to enhance our understanding of the cosmos.

Kevin Kelly, chairman and CEO of Arcfield, highlighted the program's significance by stating, "The Ouija program represents a significant leap forward in space technology and scientific research. We're proud to support this innovative VLEO mission that underscores our commitment to advancing space capabilities."

Orion Space Solutions stands at the forefront of space innovation, translating complex scientific principles into actionable aerospace solutions. For more insights on the groundbreaking work they are doing, visit orion.arcfield.com.