VLEO
Unlocking the potential of very low Earth orbit (VLEO)
For decades, space superiority was defined by how high and far we could go, but today, space superiority’s future is much closer to home.
At Orion Space Solutions (Orion), a wholly owned subsidiary of Arcfield, we are not just operating in very low Earth orbit (VLEO)—we’re pioneering its future.
THE VLEO ADVANTAGE
Situated closer to Earth than traditional low Earth orbit, VLEO offers unparalleled opportunities for innovation and advancement in space technology and applications.
Untapped real estate
Unmatched signal power
Strategic positioning
Radiation shielding
Cost-effecient operation
However, at approximately 200 to 350 kilometers above Earth, sustaining operations at VLEO altitudes is not for the faint of heart. While VLEO enables higher speed data transfer, sharper Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, unique communication modalities, increased protection from the solar radiation environment, and enhanced resilience against modern threats; it also requires the ability to overcome extreme atmospheric drag, propulsion constraints and complex space traffic dynamics.
ORION’S VLEO CAPABILITIES
Where others see obstacles, we see opportunity.
Through a thorough understanding of this turbulent space environment and the required concept of operations (CONOPS) to operate in the environment, Orion has developed advanced propulsion, real-time space situational awareness and adaptive communications solutions to transform VLEO from an emerging opportunity into an operational reality.
MISSION DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Orion’s end-to-end mission design solutions streamline satellite production, data analysis and operational efficiency for VLEO applications
ADVANCED SENSOR DEVELOPMENT
Using advanced materials to enhance performance and resilience in challenging atmospheric conditions, Orion manufactures purpose-built in-situ sensors optimized for the VLEO environment
ADAPTIVE OPERATIONS
Orion leverages AI-driven data processing and advanced modeling to optimize Earth observation and operational performance in VLEO missions
CAPABILITIES AT WORK
ATMOSPHERIC DENSITY DATA ACCURACY
Orion’s proprietary OrbitIQ™ tool surpasses existing models in precision and improves thermosphere density and drag predictions to strengthen orbit determination and maneuver planning
ADVANCED CONOPS
Our suite of space weather sensors make “in-situ” and remote observations of the VLEO environment, providing instantaneous feedback, data and CONOPs refinement
DRAG REDUCTION EFFICACY
Orion’s Kraken space vehicle design includes geometries and materials that minimize atmospheric drag and environmental degradation to significantly increase satellite longevity and reduce the frequency of replacements
UPCOMING VLEO MISSION: DARPA OUIJA
As the prime performer on the DARPA-sponsored Ouija mission, Orion will conduct “in-situ” and remote sensing observations to characterize space weather dynamics in VLEO and demonstrate new operational techniques in this uncharted domain. This pathfinding mission will be performed by our Kraken spacecraft and features a highly integrated and comprehensive instrument suite designed to measure key parameters such as electron density, ion composition and neutral atmosphere interactions. Kraken is a brand new microsat, with the sole purpose of demonstrating innovative technologies for operating in the challenging VLEO environment. This mission is set to launch in 2026.
