Sierra Space unveils Eclipse satellite buses: Velocity, Horizon, and Titan

Sierra Space unveils Eclipse satellite buses: Velocity, Horizon, and Titan
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 08, 2024

Sierra Space, a leader in the commercial space-tech and defense-tech industries, has launched its innovative Eclipse satellite bus line, marking a significant advancement in space systems technology. The new series, named Eclipse Velocity, Eclipse Horizon, and Eclipse Titan, are tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern space missions, setting a new benchmark in earth observation, satellite servicing, mobility, logistics, and communications.

Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space, expressed his enthusiasm about the new line, stating, "The Sierra Space Eclipse line is a testament to our dedication to innovation, offering scalable solutions that can meet the needs of tomorrow's space missions today. With Velocity, Horizon, and Titan, we are not just launching satellites; we are launching a new era of space commercialization."

The Eclipse Velocity is particularly notable for revolutionizing the highly maneuverable small satellite sector. It is designed for various orbital missions including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO). Featuring integrated Rendezvous, Proximity Operations and Docking (RPOD) capabilities and full six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) controls, Velocity is a fully refuellable system that enhances the accessibility and dynamic nature of space operations.

Meanwhile, the Eclipse Horizon is geared towards high-rate production. This medium-class bus is versatile enough for a range of missions, including missile warning and defense, advanced Earth observation, and communications. It is designed to provide reliable, affordable, and high-performance solutions, enabling horizon-to-horizon coverage for both government and commercial constellation missions.

On the higher end of the spectrum, the Eclipse Titan dominates with its large-class capabilities suited for demanding tasks such as cis-lunar operations, GEO logistics, on-orbit re-fueling, mission support, and satellite deployment. Its robust features underscore Sierra Space's commitment to ambitious and exploratory space missions.

Each model in the Sierra Space Eclipse series is equipped with state-of-the-art propulsion systems, advanced communication capabilities, and robust power management solutions. These scalable platforms can be customized to specific mission requirements, whether as a tailorable bus or as a fully integrated spacecraft.

Erik Daehler, Vice President of Sierra Space Orbital Missions and Services, highlighted the production capabilities of the Eclipse line, noting, "Our product line is manufactured in a high-rate production system, with the capability of being refuelable on orbit, enabling the next generation of satellites designed for dynamic space operations."