Oxford Space Systems (OSS) and Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) have successfully launched the CarbSAR In Orbit Demonstration satellite, marking a significant milestone for UK developed space based radar capability with clear defence and security relevance.
CarbSAR IOD was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Following launch, first contact with the spacecraft has been successfully established and the mission has entered its on orbit commissioning phase. During this period, the satellite platform, embedded synthetic aperture radar electronics and deployable antenna system will be fully checked out ahead of performance demonstrations.
The satellite is based on SSTL’s proven Carbonite small satellite platform and carries a novel X band SAR payload enabled by Oxford Space Systems’ Wrapped Rib Antenna. The mission aims to demonstrate the delivery of high resolution, all weather, day and night Earth observation capability from a compact, low mass spacecraft, supporting the development of resilient national intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
UK Backed Funding
CarbSAR IOD has been jointly funded by Oxford Space Systems, SSTL, Airbus Defence and Space, UK Defence and Security Accelerator, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory and the National Security Strategic Investment Fund, with additional support from the UK Space Agency. The programme reflects sustained collaboration between government and industry to mature sovereign space technologies with defence applications.
This is the first space mission to incorporate Oxford Space Systems’ deployable Wrapped Rib Antenna, concluding several years of design, engineering and manufacturing development. The antenna has been produced at OSS facilities in Oxfordshire using advanced composite and metal mesh manufacturing techniques. Its architecture enables high performance SAR operation while remaining highly compact and efficient for launch stowage, addressing one of the key constraints of small satellite radar missions.
Ground testing of the antenna has included extensive radio frequency validation, with in orbit operation now set to confirm performance under operational conditions. Successful demonstration would position the technology for future defence, security and Earth observation missions, including potential deployment across satellite constellations.
Major Milestone
Andrew Cawthorne, Managing Director of SSTL, said the launch and initial contact represent a major milestone, combining the Carbonite platform and SAR electronics with an innovative UK developed antenna solution. Sean Sutcliffe, Chief Executive of Oxford Space Systems, described the mission as validation of the maturity of the Wrapped Rib Antenna and a step towards scaling production and export for future programmes.
CarbSAR IOD continues SSTL’s long heritage of 100 kilogram class small satellite missions developed in Guildford, reinforcing the UK’s growing role in secure, resilient and sovereign space based sensing capabilities for defence and allied partners.
