On September 3, 2020, the European Space Agency (European Space Agency, abbreviated ESA) successfully launched and deployed more than 50 satellites through its Small Spacecraft Mission Service (SSMS) modular shared system.
This innovative modular payload splitter will make satellite launches more convenient and economical. It is made of Toray Advanced Composites (Toray Advanced Composites, TAC) RS-36 space-approved composite material.
The new Vega Small Spacecraft Mission Service (SSMS) includes an innovative modular dispenser that is launched in the fairing of the Vega rocket. The distributor was designed and manufactured by the Czech-based SAB Aerospace Company for Avio, the main contractor of ESA's Vega. The allocator can accommodate up to 50 satellites per launch, and adopts a modular design that allows the modules to be configured to meet the requirements of each individual launch, thereby maximizing the availability of effective load and minimizing launch costs.
The SSMS system is made of a lightweight sandwich panel structure, in which the skin structure uses all carbon fiber composite materials. The shell uses Toray RS-36 resin and composite materials. It is made by using Toray M55J grade high modulus carbon fiber to strengthen the epoxy resin matrix, which can provide strength, rigidity and stability to the overall structure. These materials are provided by TAC's European Centre of Excellence for Thermoset Systems at the Langley plant in Nottingham, UK.
"The innovation demonstrated by SSMS is another exciting example of the integration of old and new spaces." Claire Baker, Senior Aerospace and Communications Manager of Toray, introduced. "Mature material technologies such as Toray RS-36 enable the aerospace industry to innovate with confidence, with a long tradition and reliability of aerospace materials. In short, this makes it easier for small satellite companies to enter space than ever before. We hope in the future There are more tasks."