Space Technology

Defence and Security

27 February 2025

ISR – intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance

NLR offers a comprehensive range of capabilities to support end-to-end Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Our expertise spans the entire ISR chain, from innovative sensors for air- and spaceborne platforms, to advanced processing, analytics, and presentation techniques. We support the procurement, exercise, and operation of ISR systems, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Virtual Reality, and Augmented Reality to enhance situational awareness and understanding.

Space Technology

25 February 2025

Cyber security for space systems

In today's interconnected world, robust, secure, and safe end-to-end space systems and information are crucial, as many critical applications in aviation, mobile transport, telecommunication, and energy rely on satellite-retrieved data. Ensuring the mitigation of cyber security risks is vital to safeguard the safety of the user community, and confidence in cyber security solutions is essential in the design of space and ground segments. Staying aware of cyber security events and developments, as well as legislative changes, is key to maintaining the integrity of end-to-end space systems. NLR can support you with insights in the rapidly changing developments related to cyber security solutions and legislation and the impact on your system.

Space Technology

24 February 2025

Space electronics

NLR offers expertise in on-board processing solutions for a range of space missions. We can provide processing capabilities for payloads on large missions, as well as flexible and reliable processing implemented in software or hardware (FPGA) or a combination of both. Our solutions also cater to smaller satellites, such as CubeSats, with low-power, low-volume, and modular designs that can serve a range of payloads. Additionally, we support small satellite on-board processing with a mix of high reliability and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, balancing product assurance and time to market. We also specialise in niche processing applications, including space-qualified FFT processing, DSP processing, and other specific use cases.

Responsive collaborative small satellite constellations for dedicated applications
Space Technology

24 February 2025

Collaborative satellite constellations

NLR offers comprehensive support for the development of small satellites and constellations. We can assist with designing an attitude and orbit control system (AOCS) and qualifying spacecraft at both system and sub-system levels. Our expertise also includes performance analysis of space-based systems in various configurations, such as single satellites, constellations, or swarms. Additionally, we provide performance assessments of remote sensing satellites, including factors like revisit time, coverage, resolution, and orbit characteristics. We also conduct reliability and failure analyses (RAMS) and offer a real-time test system for AOCS. Whether you're developing a single satellite or a complex constellation, our support can help ensure your space system meets its performance goals.

Development of AM-propellant tanks for use in satellites
Construction and Manufacturing

27 November 2024

R&D case: Development of AM-propellant tanks for use in satellites

This research project aimed to develop additively manufactured propellant tanks using non-standard metals for use in ESPA and ESPA Grande-class satellites. The propulsion systems of Dawn Aerospace use self-pressurizing propellants, eliminating the need for helium pressurants and propellant management devices. This allows for flexible, custom tank designs without additional systems, making Dawn’s propulsion systems simpler, faster to manufacture, and more cost-effective. This flexibility enables Dawn to accommodate various customer needs. The project contributes to the objectives of the Dutch space policy in the NSO roadmap for satellite systems and aligns with ESA’s goals.

iMWP beamformer - hybrid PIC assembly
Space Technology

14 November 2024

Cutting-edge photonics for future proof microwave communication

Microwave photonics enables communication systems on satellites and aircraft to be smaller and lighter. Royal NLR and LioniX International will work together with Lockheed Martin on novel photonic solutions for microwave systems. This cutting-edge technology will speed up and improve secure communication.

ESA Galileo constellation
Space Technology

29 October 2024

Protect your navigation: new toolkit helps identify and reduce risks

Satellite navigation is an essential technology in our modern world. We use it in traffic, for precision agriculture and for managing critical infrastructure. But how safe is this technology really? There are risks associated with the use of satellite navigation, such as failures and cyber attacks. A new toolkit will help you identify and mitigate these risks.