Redwire Roll-Out Solar Arrays Successfully Deployed on First Commercial GEO Satellite for Maxar’s Ovzon 3 Mission

Rhea-AI Summary

Redwire Corporation (RDW) successfully deploys 5-kW Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSA) on Maxar Space Systems-built Ovzon 3 communications satellite, marking the first-ever integration of ROSA technology with a commercial satellite. The innovative ROSA technology provides reliable, compact, and scalable solar power generation for spacecraft, extending ROSA's successful heritage on the International Space Station (ISS) and NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission. Redwire has also secured a follow-on contract to build two additional ROSAs for the ISS and is powering the Maxar-built Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) for the NASA-led lunar Gateway with 37-kW ROSA wings.

Insights

Space Industry Analyst

The successful deployment of Redwire Corporation's 5-kW Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSA) on the Ovzon 3 communications satellite represents a significant milestone for the company. This event marks the first commercial application of ROSA technology, which has previously been tested on the ISS and NASA's DART mission. The adaptation of ROSA for geosynchronous orbit enhances Redwire's product portfolio and demonstrates the scalability and reliability of its solar power solutions.

From an industry perspective, the utilization of ROSA in varying orbits (LEO to GEO) indicates the technology's versatility and potential for broader market adoption. This could lead to increased demand for Redwire's solar arrays, potentially impacting the company's future revenue streams. The follow-on contract for additional ROSAs for the ISS and the use in the lunar Gateway's PPE further solidifies Redwire's position in the space infrastructure market.

For investors, the successful deployment and operation of ROSA on a commercial satellite may signal Redwire's readiness to capture more significant market share and participate in more ambitious space missions. This could translate into positive investor sentiment and potentially impact Redwire's stock valuation in the medium to long term.

Energy Technology Analyst

The integration of ROSA technology on a commercial satellite underscores the advancements in solar power generation for space applications. ROSA's design allows for compact stowage and has been proven to be reliable and efficient in energy generation, which is critical for the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of long-duration space missions.

For the space industry, energy supply is a pivotal component of mission design and execution. The ability of ROSA to provide scalable solar power is a game-changer, especially considering the increasing interest in deep space exploration and the need for high-power applications, such as the lunar Gateway's Power and Propulsion Element (PPE).

Redwire's innovation in solar array technology could set a new standard for solar power in space, influencing future spacecraft design and potentially leading to partnerships with other space industry players. This, in turn, may affect the competitive landscape and foster technological advancements within the sector.

Financial Analyst

The announcement of the successful deployment of Redwire's ROSA technology on a commercial satellite can be seen as a positive development for the company's financial outlook. The transition from testing and use in government-led missions to commercial applications is a critical step that could lead to a diversification of revenue sources. The commercial space sector is expanding and Redwire's foothold with ROSA could position it to capitalize on this growth.

Furthermore, the additional contract for the ISS and the involvement in the lunar Gateway project are indicative of the company's strong contract pipeline. These developments have the potential to provide a steady stream of revenue and bolster the company's financial stability. Investors and stakeholders will likely monitor the company's performance and future contract announcements closely, as these will provide insights into Redwire's growth trajectory and profitability.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Redwire Corporation (NYSE:RDW), a leader in space infrastructure for the next-generation space economy, announced today that two 5-kW Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSA) have successfully deployed and are operating nominally in geosynchronous orbit on the Maxar Space Systems-built Ovzon 3 communications satellite, which successfully launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. Ovzon 3 represents the first-ever integration of Redwire’s ROSA technology with a commercial satellite following years of successful operations on the International Space Station (ISS) and on NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission.

“Redwire is proud to support the Ovzon 3 mission with innovative ROSA technology, which will provide reliable, compact, and scalable solar power generation for the spacecraft,” said Adam Biskner, President, Space Systems at Redwire. “Redwire’s ROSA technology is continuing to leverage unparalleled innovation in solar power generation to enable the most ambitious missions from LEO to GEO and beyond.”

“We appreciate the partnership with Redwire and their commitment to excellence and reliability as a trusted supplier for this mission,” said Chris Johnson, CEO, Maxar Space Systems. “We look forward to partnering with them again in the future.”

As the first commercial integration of Redwire’s ROSA technology, the two solar array wings for the Ovzon 3 satellite extend ROSA’s successful heritage, including the six currently installed and successfully operating ROSAs on the ISS and the two wings used on NASA’s DART mission. In June 2023, Redwire announced a follow-on contract to build two additional ROSAs for the ISS.

ROSA’s groundbreaking design is also being used to supply power for the Maxar-built Power and Propulsion Element (PPE), which will be part of the first segment of the NASA-led lunar Gateway planned to launch late next year. The PPE will be powered by a pair of 37-kW ROSA wings, some of the most powerful spacecraft solar arrays ever built.

About Redwire

Redwire Corporation (NYSE:RDW) is a global space infrastructure and innovation company enabling civil, commercial, and national security programs. Redwire’s proven and reliable capabilities include power solutions, RF systems and satellite payloads, GN&C components and avionics, deployable structures and critical mechanisms, digital engineering, testing and analysis, and revolutionary microgravity R&D and manufacturing. Redwire combines decades of flight heritage and proven experience with an agile and innovative culture. Redwire’s 700 employees working from 14 facilities located throughout the United States and Europe are committed to building a bold future in space for humanity, pushing the envelope of discovery and science while creating a better world on Earth. For more information, please visit redwirespace.com.

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Source: Redwire Corporation

FAQ

What is the significance of Redwire Corporation's (RDW) recent announcement regarding the deployment of ROSA technology?

The recent announcement marks the first-ever integration of Redwire's ROSA technology with a commercial satellite, providing reliable, compact, and scalable solar power generation for spacecraft.

What are some of the successful operations of ROSA technology prior to the recent announcement?

ROSA technology has been successfully operating on the International Space Station (ISS) and on NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission.

What future projects is Redwire Corporation (RDW) involved in with regards to ROSA technology?

Redwire has secured a follow-on contract to build two additional ROSAs for the ISS and is powering the Maxar-built Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) for the NASA-led lunar Gateway with 37-kW ROSA wings.