StriX α, β (original) (raw)

StriX α [Synspective]

StriX α and StriX α, β are Japanese synthetic aperture radar satellites built by Synspective as demonstrators for their planned 25 satellite constellation. They feature an X-band synthetic aperture radar.

StriX α and β sare 150 kg satellites, larger than the planned 100 kg operational satellites. The satellites features two deployable panes, one side carrying solar cells, the other carrying the X-band radar antenna. StriX β is an upgraded version of the StriX α prototype.

The StriX satellite constellation can target data with a ground resolution of 1-3 m, single polarized (VV), and a swath width of more than 10-30 km. The StriX observation modes are Stripmap and Sliding Spotlight mode and each satellite has an SAR antenna that is 5 meters in length and stowed during launch. The simple design of the satellites allows for affordable development of the constellation.

The launch of the StriX α prototype was originally planned for 2020 on an Arianespace Vega booster on a shared mission. The launch was moved to a Rocket Labs Electron KS in late 2020. The Electron payload fairing required modifications to accomodate the satellite.

StriX β was planned to be launched in 2021 on a Soyuz-2-1a Fregat or Soyuz-2-1b Fregat rideshare mission, but as this mission was delayed, it was re-booked on a dedicated Electron KS launch.

Synspective is planning a constellation of 25 satellites called StriX, comprised of 100-kilogram satellites capable of imaging at a resolution of one to three meters. By 2022 the company plans to have six satellites in orbit. The company has not set a date by which it hopes to achieve 25 satellites.