Airbus a company working on cutting-edge space technologies and satellite imagery solutions has introduced a new High Capability Actuator for small satellites.
The HCA 4-1 from Airbus is based on high torque reaction wheels (1Nm with 4Nms) that bring to the small satellite user fast maneuver capability with enhanced pointing control, ideal for earth observation applications.
Commonly named the Smart Wheel, Airbus HCA 4-1 has been designed and developed in order to ensure local speed control which improves performance and simplifies AOCS. The actuator provides a 100% digital interface with the OBC, simplified interfacing with the satellite. It also offers 3 different control modes allowing to control the wheel in different ways.
The HCA 4-1 features an agility enabler for 200-500 kg platforms and a complete redundant solution comprising four separate RWA mechanisms, two drive electronics, and four supercapacitors. It allows for high-speed maneuvers and enhanced pointing control.
The actuator has a maximum reaction torque of 0.980 Nm and angular momentum of 4.0 Nms (6.0 Nms with a reduced torque range). It has a lifetime of up to 10 years in LEO orbit. The actuator also provides communication with the satellite platform by way of the serial TM/TC interface based on RS422/485 and performs monitoring and test functions.
Click here to learn more about the HCA 4-1 Actuator from Airbus.
Click here to learn about Actuators from various manufacturers listed on SATNow.
