Landon Kummer
CEO
Leads Aphelion business operations, outreach, and algorithms. He has developed mathematical algorithms for competitive robotics.
Lighter steering systems enabling lower-cost satellites
In Space, Every Gram and Watt Matters
Every satellite manufacturer must reduce size, weight, and power (SWaP) to decrease cost and increase range. With excess SWaP, there must be more fuel, structural support, solar panels. Every excess kilogram adds about $25,000. With the steering system being one of the heaviest subsystems, it's of critical importance to reduce SWaP in this area. That's where Aphelion comes in.
Aphelion is targeting satellites that use ion thrusters to move.
See Our Technology in Action
Aphelion spherical motor 3D model
Specifications
Volume
2,520 cm³
Peak Power
15.62 W
Mass
2.50 kg
Payload Capacity
5.29 kg
Part Count
12
Why Aphelion
Revolutionary spherical motor technology delivers unprecedented improvements in satellite control systems when compared to conventional small satellite electric propulsion pointing mechanisms.
84%
Volume Savings
29%
Power Reduction
70%
Mass Reduction
Experts Trust Aphelion
Aphelion proposes an intriguing concept, offering a lighter, less expensive alternative to traditional steering mechanisms for spacecraft. The aerospace industry values these system characteristics, and the market demand is certainly undeniable.
Team
Brandon Kirbyson
Mechanical
Designs the spherical motor CAD and mechanical architecture. He has extensive experience leading world-class competitive robotics teams.
Tobin Palmer
Systems
Builds Aphelion's embedded systems, algorithms, and website. He has experience in and autonomous systems and app development.