Two of the German military's new spy satellites appear to have failed in orbit
Two German military spy satellites by OHB failed due to antenna issues, part of SARah constellation for Bundeswehr. $800 million loss prompts talks for replacements. OHB scrutinized for inadequate testing.
Read original article
Two German military spy satellites launched into orbit last year have reportedly failed to become operational. Manufactured by OHB, the satellites encountered issues with unfolding their antennas, rendering them non-operational despite attempts to resolve the problem. The satellites were part of a constellation called SARah, aimed at providing reconnaissance capabilities for the Bundeswehr. The failure of these satellites, costing $800 million, has led to discussions of potential replacements. OHB, the manufacturer, is under scrutiny for allegedly not fully testing the satellite antennas on the ground. This setback comes as OHB is in the process of going private, with plans for acquisition by investment firm KKR. The SARah constellation was intended to replace an older fleet of satellites and enhance the military's imaging reconnaissance capabilities.
Related
Sweden reports Russian jamming against Astra satellites
Sweden reports Russian jamming signals affecting Astra satellites to ITU, disrupting northern European communications. Interference targets SES-operated satellites in Scandinavia, sparking concerns amid broader radio war in Eastern Europe. Flight suspensions and communication challenges ensue.
"People's Satellite" Helped Ukraine Hit over 1k Targets Spy Agency Says
A crowd-funded ICEYE satellite aids Ukraine in targeting and destroying over 1,500 Russian military assets. ICEYE's SAR technology provides crucial intelligence despite adverse conditions, enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities significantly.
CNES Chief Responds Harshly to Eumetsat's Decision to Ditch Ariane 6
Philippe Baptiste criticized Eumetsat's switch from Ariane 6 to Falcon 9 for launching Meteosat MTG-S1, calling it a setback for European space efforts. Concerns arise over Ariane 6's reliability and European launcher preference.
Crowd-Funded Satellite Guides Ukraine's Strategic Destruction of RU War Machine
A crowd-funded satellite from Finland's ICEYE aids Ukraine in targeting and destroying 1,500+ Russian military sites. Dubbed the "People's Satellite," it enhances defense capabilities and guides precise strikes effectively.
Europe smarts as Elon Musk's SpaceX wins key satellite deal
Europe's Ariane 6 faces setbacks as EUMETSAT chooses SpaceX for satellite launch despite Ariane 6's upcoming debut. Competition between rockets highlighted. Ariane 6 prepares for July 9 launch amidst challenges.
3 commentsGerman sources say they did not fully test the functionality and deployment of the satellite antennas on the ground.
Related
Sweden reports Russian jamming against Astra satellites
Sweden reports Russian jamming signals affecting Astra satellites to ITU, disrupting northern European communications. Interference targets SES-operated satellites in Scandinavia, sparking concerns amid broader radio war in Eastern Europe. Flight suspensions and communication challenges ensue.
"People's Satellite" Helped Ukraine Hit over 1k Targets Spy Agency Says
A crowd-funded ICEYE satellite aids Ukraine in targeting and destroying over 1,500 Russian military assets. ICEYE's SAR technology provides crucial intelligence despite adverse conditions, enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities significantly.
CNES Chief Responds Harshly to Eumetsat's Decision to Ditch Ariane 6
Philippe Baptiste criticized Eumetsat's switch from Ariane 6 to Falcon 9 for launching Meteosat MTG-S1, calling it a setback for European space efforts. Concerns arise over Ariane 6's reliability and European launcher preference.
Crowd-Funded Satellite Guides Ukraine's Strategic Destruction of RU War Machine
A crowd-funded satellite from Finland's ICEYE aids Ukraine in targeting and destroying 1,500+ Russian military sites. Dubbed the "People's Satellite," it enhances defense capabilities and guides precise strikes effectively.
Europe smarts as Elon Musk's SpaceX wins key satellite deal
Europe's Ariane 6 faces setbacks as EUMETSAT chooses SpaceX for satellite launch despite Ariane 6's upcoming debut. Competition between rockets highlighted. Ariane 6 prepares for July 9 launch amidst challenges.