Firefly algorithm error shortened Lockheed satellite mission

A Firefly software program algorithm error precipitated a Lockheed Martin satellite tv for pc to malfunction, leading to a a lot shorter mission than anticipated following a botched Alpha launch.

In accordance to Firefly Aerospace’s mission replace, the investigation decided the mishap was because of a difficulty within the Steerage, Navigation, and Management (GNC) software program algorithm that prevented the system from sending the mandatory pulse instructions to the Response Management System (RCS) thrusters earlier than the relight of the second stage.

This resulted within the 300-pound payload, an Digital Steerable Antenna (ESA) demonstrator, going into the improper orbit following an upper-stage downside with the Firefly, dubbed “Fly the Lightning,” on December 22.

Whereas the burn of the second stage to circularize the orbit didn’t go to plan, Lockheed Martin House know-how acceleration director Bob Behnken advised SpaceNews, that the corporate’s antenna know-how demonstration payload “exceeded our expectations and efficiently accomplished all main mission goals. 

“This feat is much more spectacular in mild of the spacecraft being positioned in an unplanned, decrease orbit, which resulted in a dramatically compressed mission timeline,” he added. Finally, the payload was explicitly designed to exhibit faster on-orbit sensor calibration.

The mission said that Firefly would now be implementing corrections actions to make sure the GNC software program situation is resolved, together with course of modifications to detect and forestall related points sooner or later. “Alpha might be able to fly once more within the coming months,” it added.

“We’re pleased with the mixed group’s means to work collectively to attain this optimistic final result,” mentioned Invoice Weber, CEO of Firefly Aerospace. “Trying forward, the essential long-term final result is the fast, thorough maturation of Alpha because the reliable one metric ton class rocket the market is demanding, which Firefly is devoted to and is delivering.”

Firefly satellite tv for pc missions

“Fly the Lightning” marked Firefly and Alpha’s fourth orbital mission. Their first flight in September 2021 resulted in failure shortly after launch, serving as a check mission. Alpha skilled partial success in October 2022, efficiently delivering seven satellites to orbit however reportedly deploying them at lower-than-intended altitudes.

The third launch passed off in September 2023 as a part of the U.S. House Power’s mission named Victus Nox. This mission was hailed as a powerful success. Alpha achieved a brand new milestone by launching simply 27 hours after receiving the House Power’s order, setting a brand new report for nationwide safety missions. The first satellite tv for pc was deployed into the goal orbit as deliberate.

Featured picture: Canva / Firefly Aerospace