Redwire's Hammerhead Satellite: A Milestone for ESA's Atmospheric Stratosphere Mission
Redwire successfully integrates Hammerhead spacecraft for ESA's ALTIUS mission, a milestone in atmospheric studies and European space innovation.
In a remarkable achievement for European space endeavors, Redwire Corporation has successfully integrated its Hammerhead spacecraft platform for the European Space Agency’s (ESA) much-anticipated ALTIUS mission. The integration took place at Redwire’s state-of-the-art satellite processing facility located in Kruibeke, Belgium, marking a significant step toward the mission’s realization.
Hammerhead’s Role in the ALTIUS Mission
The Hammerhead spacecraft is set to play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of atmospheric phenomena. Designed specifically for low Earth orbit applications, this innovative platform will next undergo rigorous system-level testing, followed by payload integration. These processes will culminate in the complete assembly of the ALTIUS satellite, which aims to support atmospheric studies under ESA’s Atmospheric Limb Tracker for Investigation of the Upcoming Stratosphere initiative.
Advanced Technology Behind Hammerhead
Hammerhead is outfitted with Redwire’s cutting-edge ADPMS-3 avionics, demonstrating the mission’s reliance on high-performance onboard systems. As stated by Mike Gold, Redwire’s President of Civil and International Space, “Hammerhead’s integration marks another major success at our Belgium facility, which has become a cornerstone for complex multinational space missions.”
Redwire’s Continued Legacy in Spaceflight Innovation
Building on a heritage of over four decades in spaceflight innovation, Redwire’s Belgian team has been instrumental in ESA’s Proba program, successfully delivering every satellite in the series, including Proba-1, Proba-2, Proba-V, and Proba-3. This legacy continues with the ongoing construction of Skimsat, a compact satellite tailored for operations in very low Earth orbit.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in European Space Development
Redwire’s achievements provide a promising outlook for European space development, with efficient, on-time deliveries for ESA reflecting the team’s dedication and expertise. As the Hammerhead integration concludes, the ESA ALTIUS mission edges closer to shedding new light on our planet’s atmospheric layers. This project stands as a testament to Redwire’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space technology, paving the way for future atmospheric exploration initiatives. According to Space Daily, this integration marks a new milestone in fostering advanced space missions.
By leading such significant missions, Redwire not only showcases their engineering prowess but also strengthens the ties and collaborative spirit of the international space community.