Key Takeaways
- Oxford Space Systems successfully deployed its Wrapped Rib Antenna on SSTL’s CarbSAR mission, marking a significant achievement in satellite technology.
- The antenna is designed for advanced Earth observation and is capable of high-performance X-band synthetic aperture radar.
- This deployment enhances Oxford Space Systems’ reputation and supports future satellite projects in both government and commercial sectors.
Historic Deployment in Space
Oxford Space Systems and Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL) celebrated the successful in-orbit deployment of the Wrapped Rib Antenna on the CarbSAR In-Orbit Demonstration mission. This milestone, achieved on January 11, 2026, as part of a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch, marks the first operational deployment of Oxford’s large deployable reflector, showcasing its multi-year development efforts in engineering and manufacturing.
The Wrapped Rib Antenna, designed for compact and efficient stowage, enables high-performance X-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities. Its dual-stage deployment begins with the metal mesh primary reflector, followed by the secondary reflector mast, which enhances its effective use in Earth observation missions aboard small satellites.
Pete Ashworth, Chief Technology Officer at Oxford Space Systems, emphasized this deployment as a pivotal technical milestone. He noted that it validates the company’s engineering methodology and its expertise in advancing deployable antenna technologies in the UK. Ashworth expressed confidence in using this deployment as a foundation for future missions and large-scale production.
SSTL’s Managing Director, Andrew Cawthorne, described the successful deployment as key for the CarbSAR mission, highlighting its potential for compact satellite platforms and expressing pride in collaborating with Oxford Space Systems to validate this leading-edge technology.
The successful deployment generates valuable in-orbit data, fortifying Oxford Space Systems’ standing as a premier provider of advanced deployable antennas. This experience is crucial for ongoing initiatives targeting both governmental and commercial sectors in the UK and abroad, contributing to industrial advancements in large-scale antenna production.
About Oxford Space Systems
Founded in 2013, Oxford Space Systems is a venture capital-backed space technology company focused on becoming a global leader in deployable antennas. Operating from Oxfordshire, the company specializes in producing antennas for satellite constellations and is expanding its reach internationally.
About Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL)
SSTL, based in Guildford, UK, and part of Airbus Defence and Space, has over 40 years of experience in small satellite innovation. It is renowned for its reliability and advanced technology, specializing in small satellite platforms and comprehensive satellite missions.
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