This is a significant milestone in the Azalea mission that is setting out to fly three satellites in formation using ultra-wideband RF sensors. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites were also used in the launch as they have the capacity to create images of Earth’s surface through the clouds.
“Building on decades of experience in defence, security and space innovation, our Azalea mission reflects the critical role space plays in defence and national security, offering a unique vantage point of Earth which enables us to better understand and respond to today’s complex threats,” said Andrea Thompson, group managing director at BAE Systems’ digital intelligence branch.
“This cutting-edge technology is designed to deliver near real-time, space-based insights directly to users, empowering them to make informed decisions that help protect the UK and its allies. I’m incredibly proud of the team for their work to boost the UK’s space capability.”
Each spacecraft weighs approximately 150 kilograms, carrying the Azalea Enhanced Software Defined Radio which uses artificial intelligence to process radiofrequency (RF) and SAR data. The payload has the capability to reconfigure remotely while in orbit, positioning BAE Systems as advanced space technology manufacturers.
The satellites will produce RF and SAR data that will be used to deliver actionable information to defence intelligence across land, sea and air sectors.
The CEO of the UK Space Agency, Dr Paul Bate, said that “The successful launch of the Azalea constellation will increase the availability of advanced information from space, to help meet the fast-growing global demand from civil, national security and defence customers.”
“The new satellites, which will use AI to convert raw data into actionable intelligence, represent a significant and welcome investment by BAE Systems in the UK space industry, which plays a vital role in driving economic growth and keeping us safe.”
The satellites travel at around 7.6 kilometres per second, orbiting the Earth every 90 minutes.