Space Technology

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, […]
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. Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) and LioniX International are proud to announce that they will […]
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 […]
Space Technology

24 September 2024

Booklet: Overview space capabilities

Royal NLR works closely with both industry and government on developing satellites, payloads and launchers systems and subsystems, such as thermal control systems, electronics and antennas. We also offer unique capabilities in the area of aerospace qualified lightweightcomposite structures and multi-metal additive manufacturing, and on the effective use of earth observation and satellite navigation data […]
Aviation resilience to GNSS frequency jamming and cyber threats.
Defence and Security

25 January 2024

R&D case: Resilience to GNSS frequency jamming and cyber threats (AIRING)

The challenge The AIRING project has investigated the increased risk of interference and spoofing for aviation, and the technical ways it can be detected or mitigated. A concept was proposed to combine technology and operational procedures, in such a way that GNSS interference can be detected and dealt with in an effective and safe way. […]
Responsive collaborative small satellite constellations for dedicated applications
Space Technology

25 January 2024

Space as critical infrastructure

Not a luxury, but a necessity: the Dutch aerospace industry is pushing for a long-term aerospace agenda. A good initiative for further innovation and substantial investment to maintain and strengthen its competitive position. Aerospace technologies help solve many societal, scientific and economic challenges. Whether it concerns monitoring climate change, ensuring social safety or providing communication […]
Space Technology

11 December 2023

R&D case: Advanced payload control and onboard data processing

The challenge Current SmallSat avionics are not suitable for commercial SmallSat missions. The challenge is here to get to a solution with a proper balance between size, versatility, reliability, robustness to the space environment and cost effectiveness. A solution using space qualified parts is too expensive and bulky and a solution based on commercially off […]
Space Technology

11 November 2023

Brochure: Space applications the miniMPL, cooling for CubeSats

The Multi Parallel Micro Pump consists of a stack of several micro pumps, which consists each of a piezo membrane and a valve to direct the flow. The prime functionality lies in the flexibility the current solution offers: if a higher flow is needed, more pumps can be added to be able to deliver that […]
Defence and Security

07 September 2023

The MilSpace2 satellite system for military use

The MilSpace2 satellite system will demonstrate the military use of a microsatellite spectrum monitoring system. The mission will build on experience from the Norwegian NorSat-3 and the Dutch BRIK-II missions. This is the first time Norway and the Netherlands launch a constellation of satellites that will fly in tandem, which means the involved parties gain […]