Terran Orbital’s Tyvak International Announces Successful Launch of IPERDRONE.0 Developed for the Italian Space Agency

Rhea-AI Summary

Tyvak International, a subsidiary of Terran Orbital (NYSE: LLAP), has successfully launched and deployed IPERDRONE.0 for the Italian Space Agency. The satellite was launched on SpaceX's Transporter 11 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base on August 16th, 2024. First contact has been established, and the team is working on commissioning the vehicle.

IPERDRONE.0 is part of a larger program aimed at demonstrating new technologies, inspecting space assets, and eventually returning spacecraft to Earth. This first mission focuses on validating proximity operations algorithms, inspection cameras, and propulsion systems. Tyvak International is responsible for hardware and software development, assembly, integration, testing, and launch integration, as well as on-orbit operations from their Mission Operations Center in Turin.

Positive

• Successful launch and deployment of IPERDRONE.0 satellite
• First contact established with the satellite
• Tyvak International responsible for key aspects of the mission, showcasing technical capabilities
• Part of a larger program with potential for future missions and technological advancements

Negative

• None.

Insights

Space Technology Expert

The successful launch of IPERDRONE.0 marks a significant step forward in space technology development. This mission, focusing on proximity operations algorithms, inspection cameras and propulsion systems, lays the groundwork for future advancements in satellite inspection and retrieval capabilities. The incremental approach of the IPERDRONE program, progressing from technology demonstration to potential Earth return missions, showcases a well-structured plan for advancing space exploration capabilities.

The collaboration between Tyvak International, CIRA and Kayser Italia demonstrates the strength of international partnerships in space technology development. This project could potentially lead to breakthroughs in satellite servicing, debris removal and re-entry technologies, addressing critical challenges in the growing space economy.

Aerospace Industry Analyst

Terran Orbital's involvement in this project through its subsidiary Tyvak International strengthens its position in the competitive smallsat market. The company's end-to-end capabilities, from satellite development to on-orbit operations, demonstrate its vertical integration strategy. This project for the Italian Space Agency could open doors to more government contracts and international collaborations, potentially boosting Terran Orbital's revenue streams and market share.

Investors should note that while this launch is a positive development, the long-term financial impact will depend on the success of subsequent IPERDRONE missions and the company's ability to leverage this technology for commercial applications. The space industry's growth trajectory and increasing demand for small satellite solutions could provide tailwinds for Terran Orbital's business model.

TURIN, Italy--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Tyvak International SRL (“Tyvak International”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Terran Orbital Corporation (NYSE: LLAP) and a leading European nano and microsatellite manufacturer based in Italy, proudly announces the successful launch and deployment of IPERDRONE.0 following its release from the launcher. First contact has been established, and the Tyvak International team is now diligently working on the commissioning of the vehicle.

Photo Credit: SpaceX

This advanced space vehicle, developed for the Italian Space Agency, was launched aboard SpaceX's Transporter 11 mission, on August 16^th, 2024 from Vandenberg Space Force Base marking a significant milestone in Tyvak International's contributions to space exploration and technology. The program consortium includes Centro Italiano Ricerche Aerospaziali (CIRA) and Kayser Italia. Tyvak International is responsible for the satellite hardware and software development, assembly, integration, testing, and launch integration service. Additionally, all on-orbit operations will be planned and executed from their Mission Operations Center collocated in Turin.

The IPERDRONE Program is structured as a sequence of missions, with incremental objectives, starting with the demonstration of new technologies, moving on to the inspection of space assets, and culminating in the return of the spacecraft to Earth. The first mission named IPERDRONE.0, is focused on validation and demonstration of key technology, specifically the proximity operations algorithms, the inspection cameras, and the propulsion system. These elements create the foundation upon which the entire program can advance.

The next IPERDRONE missions will target collaborative space assets and investigate advanced control mechanisms to steer the space vehicle's downward journey and novel materials designed to shield it from the extreme temperatures encountered during atmospheric re-entry.

About Tyvak International

Tyvak International SRL, a subsidiary of Terran Orbital Corporation, is a leading European nano and microsatellite provider, based in Turin, Italy. A front runner in miniaturization and specialized in execution and delivery, Tyvak International is contract Prime of European Space Agency for the Milani mission, coordinating a team of 12 entities, universities, research centers, and enterprises in Italy and across all Europe. Learn more at www.tyvak.eu.

About Terran Orbital

Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of satellite products primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries. Terran Orbital provides end-to-end satellite solutions by combining satellite design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on-orbit support to meet the needs of the most demanding military, civil, and commercial customers. Learn more at www.terranorbital.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240820413136/en/

Juliana Johnson

Public Relations

pr@terranorbital.com

949-508-6404

Source: Terran Orbital

FAQ

When was IPERDRONE.0 launched by Terran Orbital's subsidiary Tyvak International (NYSE: LLAP)?

IPERDRONE.0 was launched on August 16th, 2024, aboard SpaceX's Transporter 11 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base.

What are the main objectives of the IPERDRONE.0 mission for Terran Orbital (NYSE: LLAP)?

The main objectives are to validate and demonstrate key technologies, including proximity operations algorithms, inspection cameras, and the propulsion system.

What is Tyvak International's role in the IPERDRONE.0 project for Terran Orbital (NYSE: LLAP)?

Tyvak International is responsible for satellite hardware and software development, assembly, integration, testing, launch integration, and on-orbit operations from their Mission Operations Center in Turin.

What are the future plans for the IPERDRONE program involving Terran Orbital (NYSE: LLAP)?

Future IPERDRONE missions will target collaborative space assets, investigate advanced control mechanisms for spacecraft re-entry, and test novel materials for atmospheric re-entry shielding.