Anduril demos night-vision sensor for tracking satellites in darkness
Summary
Anduril said it successfully tested a long-wave infrared sensor on its Anduril-216 satellite. The sensor detects heat from spacecraft, including during periods when they pass through Earth’s shadow, and could help track maneuvers that visible-light sensors may miss.Key Facts
- Anduril-216 launched on a SpaceX rideshare mission in July with several technology demonstration payloads.
- The satellite orbits about 590 kilometers above Earth and spends about one-third of each orbit in darkness.
- Anduril said the infrared sensor can detect spacecraft heat signatures during orbital eclipses.
- Ground and space-based tracking systems use radar and optical sensors to monitor satellite traffic.
- The U.S. Space Force tracks satellites to assess potential threats and to warn operators about possible collisions.
- Anduril released an infrared image of the Moon above Earth’s horizon from the sensor.
- Apex Space built the satellite platform for Anduril-216.
- Anduril said it plans to use third-party satellite platforms rather than start its own satellite production line.
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