Jena-Optronik to supply ASTRO HP star sensor for MDA Space LEO mission
MDA Space has selected Jena-Optronik’s ASTRO HP star sensor for a mission in low Earth orbit. The optical head uses a radiation-hard Faintstar2 detector and fast, compact optics aimed at small and medium high-performance satellites. It builds on the ASTRO APS3 and ASTRO CL lines and uses ASTROlib software, with a first flight-ready version planned for this program.
MDA Space will use Jena-Optronik’s ASTRO HP star sensor on a low Earth orbit mission. The optical head pairs a radiation-hardened Faintstar2 detector with compact, rapid optics, targeting small and medium high-performance satellites. It draws on ASTRO APS3 and ASTRO CL designs, with ASTROlib software for integration.
The design aims to improve attitude determination and rate measurement while allowing existing satellite platforms to remain largely unchanged. Its modular architecture lets mission planners adjust performance and cost. ASTROlib also supports specialized SSA functions. A first flight-ready unit is planned for this program.
More precise and resilient star sensors could improve the reliability of low Earth orbit satellites, affecting operators, insurers, and users of Earth observation, communications, and timing-dependent services. Smaller high-performance platforms may broaden access to commercial and scientific missions, potentially expanding data and connectivity. Whether these benefits materialize depends on mission success, costs, and regulation.