Launch Success
Liftoff Time (GMT)
20:37:00
Monday February 28, 2022
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StriX β is a Japanese synthetic aperture radar satellite built by Synspective as a demonstrator for their planned 25-satellite constellation. It will feature an X-band synthetic aperture radar. StriX β is an upgraded version of the StriX α prototype. The satellite features two deployable panes, one side carrying solar cells, the other carrying the X-band radar antenna. The StriX satellite constellation can target data with a ground resolution of 1-3 m, single polarized (VV), and a swath width of more than 10-30 km. The StriX observation modes are Stripmap and Sliding Spotlight mode and each satellite has a SAR antenna that is 5 meters in length and stowed during launch. The simple design of the satellites allows for affordable development of the constellation. StriX β was planned to be launched in 2021 on a Soyuz-2-1a Fregat or Soyuz-2-1b Fregat rideshare mission, but as this mission was delayed, it was re-booked on a dedicated Electron KS launch. Synspective is planning a constellation of 25 satellites called StriX, comprised of 100-kilogram satellites capable of imaging at a resolution of one to three meters. By 2022 the company plans to have six satellites in orbit. The company has not set a date by which it hopes to achieve 25 satellites.
Sun-Synchronous Orbit
1 Payload
Agency
Rocket LabPrice
$7.50 million
Rocket
Height: 18m
Payload to Orbit
LEO: 320 kg
Liftoff Thrust
224 Kilonewtons
Fairing
Diameter: 1.2m
Height: 4.05m
Stages
3
24th
Mission
1st
Mission of 2022
24th
Mission
1st
Mission of 2022
21st
Orbital launch attempt