Berlin, Germany – [21 August 2024] – OKAPI:Orbits, a leading provider of end-to-end Space Traffic Management solutions, has successfully assisted Rapid Cubes GmbH and the Chair of Space Technology of the Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) in locating and establishing a connection with their recently launched OOV-Cube satellite.

The satellite, launched on Ariane-6 in early July, was the first joint satellite between the Chair of Space Technology at TU Berlin and Rapid Cubes. With the help of OKAPI:Orbits' advanced data fusion capabilities, they were able to start the commissioning of their spacecraft. 

Mission Background

Rapid Cubes, a spin-out of the Chair of Space Technology of TU Berlin, launched the OOV-Cube satellite with great anticipation, aiming to contribute to various research and development initiatives in space technology. However, after the satellite was inserted into its transfer orbit, they encountered some difficulties in establishing a connection with their asset. Additionally, the absence of published Two-Line Elements (TLEs) from Space Track added to the challenge of locating the satellite amidst the batch released by the launch vehicle.

OKAPI:Orbits' Intervention

OKAPI:Orbits, utilizing its extensive data platform and sophisticated algorithms, was able to narrow down the potential orbit fit candidates from the batch of released satellites, ultimately identifying the OOV-Cube satellite. 

"Our team was determined to support Raid Cubes and TU Berlin in their mission," said Christopher Kebschull, CTO & Co-Founder of OKAPI:Orbits. "By leveraging our advanced data fusion technology and expertise, we were able to provide precise data that enabled TU Berlin to locate their satellite and establish communication. This collaboration underscores the importance of reliable, high-accuracy data management in ensuring the success of satellite missions."

Successful Outcome

With the information provided by OKAPI:Orbits, TU Berlin successfully identified the OOV-Cube satellite and established a stable connection. This achievement highlights the critical role of collaboration and technological innovation in overcoming challenges in space operations.

“We are happy to have successfully closed the commissioning phase and are excited to start our regular payload operations. Especially our students can’t wait to test their cloud classifying machine learning algorithms on board.” - Alexander Balke, head of OOV-Cube operations (TUB).

 About OKAPI:Orbits

OKAPI:Orbits is a comprehensive Space Traffic Management solutions provider. The company is committed to ensuring space missions’ safety and optimization through its AI-based SSA and STM Platforms - OKAPI:Soteria, Aether, and Astrolabe. The platforms are dedicated to maximizing in-orbit safety, promoting space sustainability, and optimizing satellite operations. OKAPI:Orbits offers end-to-end solutions and constitutes the go-to solutions provider for the dynamic needs of the space industry.

 About TU Berlin

The Technical University of Berlin is a prestigious academic institution known for its cutting-edge research and technological advancements. With a strong focus on engineering, technology, and applied sciences, TU Berlin continues to contribute significantly to various fields, including space research and satellite development. OOV-Cube marks TU Berlin’s satellite no. 30 which was successfully developed and operated in space.

 About Rapid Cubes

Rapid Cubes is a spin-off from the Chair of Space Technology at TU Berlin. The main heritage is the development and operation of nanosatellites and related technology. They have licensed the successful TUBiX10 nano satellite platform (10kg class), which is already in orbit with 2 missions (S-NET, SALSAT) including 5 satellites and more than 15 years of accumulated space heritage.

Media Contacts:

For OKAPI:Orbits:

Christine Vlachou

Marketing &Communications Manager

christine@okapiorbits.com 

For TU Berlin:

Barbara Halstenberg

Referentin fürWissenschaftskommunikation und Pressearbeit

halstenberg@tu-berlin.de

For Rapid Cubes:

Walter Frese

Founder & CEO of Rapid Cubes GmbH

walter.frese@rapidcubes.space