US startup’s retractable solar panels help satellites navigate dangerous orbits
SMRTR summary
Atomic-6, a composite materials startup, secured $2 million from the US Space Force to develop retractable solar arrays for military satellites. The "Light Wing" technology allows spacecraft to rapidly stow and redeploy solar panels, reducing collision risks in crowded orbits. This 21-month project aims to test and qualify the system for long-term space missions, addressing growing concerns about orbital debris and satellite safety.
SMRTR provides this summary for quick context. The original article belongs to Interesting Engineering.
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