Falcon ExoDynamics, a small California-based defense contractor, has been selected by the US Space Force to transform the Handle modular satellite interface from a research prototype to a commercially supported standard for military space missions.
Falcon ExoDynamics will develop the Handle 2.0 — an updated version of the modular electronics interface with an open system, which serves as a common connection point between satellite platforms (bus) and payloads (payloads). This work will support the military's efforts to shorten the development and deployment timelines of satellites as part of the Tactically Responsive Space initiative (TacRS). TacRS missions are designed to demonstrate the ability to rapidly launch and operate spacecraft in response to emerging threats in orbital space.
The updated design is slated to be launched into orbit during the Space Force's upcoming Victus Salo mission, planned for the end 2026 year. Victus Salo is designed to demonstrate rapid deployment and on-orbit maneuvering to counter potential threats to US spacecraft. Handle 2.0 is being developed to expand the range of supported payloads, as the Space Force seeks to standardize the design elements of its satellites. Due to separation of the satellite platform (bus) from the mission load, this approach will allow satellites to be built or stored in advance, deploying sensors only after a specific mission requirement appears.
Such a model is aimed at shortening the terms of traditional satellite development cycles, which, according to defense officials, increasingly do not match the pace of modern counterspace threats. In the operational space concept, the military could quickly launch a surveillance satellite to inspect a suspected anti-satellite weapon or other object, which is worrying.
Source: https://spacenews.com