Overview
The spacecraft system series (XSS) of micro-satellites are the product of an experimental program conducted on behalf of the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory. The mission of the XSS micro-satellites is to provide inspection, maintenance, and repair services for orbiting (on-orbit) spacecraft and potentially for beyond-orbit spacecraft. The objective is to provide these various services at lower cost and more quickly than an alternative program of replacement from the ground.
Micro-Satellite Equipment and Capabilities
The system of XSS micro-satellites will possess the following capabilities and equipment:
- Delta II propulsion system for carrying secondary payloads
- On-board avionics for precision maneuvering
- Ability to operate using onboard and ground-based commands
- High-resolution cameras for inspection
- Re-stowable solar panels for free-flight operation
Micro-Satellite Functions
Deployed to orbit from a carrier vehicle, the small, agile XSS micro-satellites will carry out the following precision functions:
- Close-proximity inspection
- An array of responsive, on-orbit and beyond-orbit services
- Maintenance and repair activities that will extend the life and performance of orbital assets at lower cost than ground based programs
Joint Effort
As part of a combined government and industry team to integrate micro-satellites, the XSS-10 mission was the first to demonstrate the XSS concept. Deployed as a secondary payload aboard a Delta II rocket on Jan. 29, 2003, the micro-sat successfully maneuvered around the orbiting Delta II second stage and transmitted imagery. The micro-sat also moved away, relocated the second stage and migrated back.