From research to orbit: HAUT-S - a space-qualified solution for real-time onboard ODTS

Kurzfassung

Spaceopal and the German Aerospace Center (DLR) have joined forces in a technology transfer to create the HAUT-S, a commercial space qualified payload for real-time onboard precise orbit determination (OD) and time synchronization (TS) for Low Earth Orbit (LEO), low Medium Earth Orbit (low-MEO), CubeSat satellites and sounding rocket trajectories (>100km). HAUT-S reduces latency for onboard real-time precise orbit information that enables advanced mission concepts such as LEO-PNT, only possible if LEO satellites know their orbits and time very precisely. This paper outlines the development and qualification of the HAUT-S, an ODTS building block for LEO-PNT satellites, highlighting the engineering approach, performance achievements, and lessons learned on the path to space readiness.