Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) Satellite Systems:
State-run defense major Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and space-tech startup Bellatrix Aerospace have signed an MoU to jointly develop Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellite systems.
- The collaboration is a strategic partnership to design, develop, and manufacture next-generation satellite platforms and payloads specifically for the Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) It combines high-end defense electronics manufacturing with innovative satellite propulsion technologies.
- Organizations Involved: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bellatrix Aerospace.
- Aim:
- To build indigenous capabilities in VLEO satellite platforms.
- To develop integrated satellite solutions for both strategic (defense) and civilian applications.
- To combine PSU manufacturing depth with the agility of a deep-tech startup to accelerate space innovation.
- VLEO refers to altitudes between 150 km and 450 km, which is significantly lower than traditional Low Earth Orbit (LEO) (500 km – 2,000 km).
- At these altitudes, satellites encounter a thin atmosphere that creates significant aerodynamic drag.
- To prevent the satellite from falling back to Earth, Bellatrix’s specialized electric/green propulsion systems provide constant station-keeping thrust to counter the drag.
- Being closer to the surface allows for better optical resolution and faster signal transmission back to ground stations.
