US Space Force and Defense Innovation Unit (GOD) identified Northrop Grumman and True Anomaly to create small satellite prototypes based on low-cost commercial technologies. The devices must demonstrate the ability to track friendly and hostile satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) within the GHOST-R program. The robots will contribute to the implementation of the multibillion-dollar initiative of the Space Force RG-XX, which aims to deploy a fleet of reconnaissance satellites by the end of the decade.
For reference: Northrop Grumman is one of the largest defense and aerospace conglomerates in the world, which is a key strategic partner of the US Department of Defense and NATO.
True Anomaly is an American defense technology aerospace startup, which specializes exclusively in protecting orbital space and ensuring the space superiority of the US and its allies
GHOST-R is the US tactical reconnaissance program in GEO, aimed at creating a new generation of low-cost satellites for tracking other space objects.
It is planned to launch the satellites into orbit at 2028 year for holding demonstrations
from obtaining high-resolution images and weekly observations of target objects. If successful, they should become operational platforms of the RG-XX to 2029 year. Companies must also provide a plan to scale up to a full-fledged group, capable of tracking all objects in geostationary orbit, included in the open catalog.
Northrop Grumman, current prime contractor for the GSSAP program, will use the ESPASat-L platform (commercial satellite platform of small class) and optical payloads from TRL 11. True Anomaly will use its own Jackal vehicle and Mosaic ground system, which provide high maneuverability, autonomy and scalability. The program is aimed at reducing technical risks, reducing costs and accelerating the delivery of capabilities for a more sustainable space architecture.
For reference: GSSAP is a secret military program of the US Space Force, intended for tracking, inspection and detailed observation of other objects (especially foreign satellites) of GEO.
TRL 11 is an American aerospace startup in the field of defense technology, which specializes in creating artificial intelligence systems, cameras and platforms for recording full-frame high-definition video directly in space.