Sierra Space Introduces Groundbreaking Eclipse Satellite Bus Line Sierra Space, a prominent player in the commercial space-tech sector and a key figure in next-generation defense technology, is pioneering a platform in space aimed at enhancing life on Earth while safeguarding economic freedoms in the Orbital Age®. Today, the company unveiled its innovative Sierra Space Eclipse satellite bus line, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. This cutting-edge series sets a new benchmark in earth observation, servicing, mobility, logistics, and communications.
Comprising three distinct classes tailored to meet a diverse array of missions, the Sierra Space Eclipse bus line consists of Eclipse Velocity, Eclipse Horizon, and Eclipse Titan. These classes are meticulously designed to address the rapidly evolving demands of the modern space industry.
Sierra Space CEO Tom Vice emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation, stating, “The Sierra Space Eclipse line reflects our dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Offering scalable solutions that anticipate tomorrow’s space missions, Velocity, Horizon, and Titan represent not just satellites, but a transformative era in space commercialization.”
Eclipse Velocity is set to revolutionize the highly maneuverable small satellite sector, boasting unparalleled efficiency and agility in a compact form. Equipped with integrated Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking (RPOD) capabilities, along with full 6-DOF controls, Velocity is designed for missions in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO), making space more accessible than ever before.
Eclipse Horizon, the high-rate production satellite of the Eclipse line, offers versatility for a wide range of missions, from missile warning and defense to advanced Earth observation and communications. With its reputation for reliability, affordability, and high performance, Eclipse Horizon facilitates horizon-to-horizon coverage for both government and commercial constellation missions.
Eclipse Titan, the largest of the series, represents the pinnacle of satellite technology. Designed for demanding tasks such as Cis-lunar operations, Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) logistics, on-orbit refueling, and satellite deployment, Titan embodies Sierra Space’s spirit of ambition and exploration.
The Sierra Space Eclipse series showcases state-of-the-art propulsion systems, integrated rendezvous capabilities, advanced communication features, and robust power management. These capabilities are housed within scalable platforms that can be customized to unique mission requirements, either as a tailorable bus or as a fully integrated spacecraft.
Erik Daehler, Vice President of Sierra Space Orbital Missions and Services, highlighted the manufacturing prowess behind the Eclipse product line, stating, “Our Sierra Space Eclipse series is manufactured using a high-rate production system, with the capability for on-orbit refueling, paving the way for the next generation of satellites designed for dynamic space operations.”
With nearly three decades of experience in designing, manufacturing, and delivering space systems, components, and spacecraft on-orbit, Sierra Space is poised to continue its legacy of innovation. The company’s Orbital Missions and Services team has played a pivotal role in supporting over 400 successful space and interplanetary missions, launching 23 space vehicles to date.