reflex aerospace was selected by the european space

High-Aspect Ratio Satellite Platforms for Space

UNDERSTANDING AND LEVERAGING THE POTENTIAL OF FLAT SATELLITE CONFIGURATIONS

A Collaboration for Future Flexibility

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we build and design custom satellites for low earth orbit

Reflex Aerospace, in collaboration with Novaspace and Initium Space Consulting, completed a comprehensive study for the European Space Agency examining the transformative potential of High Aspect Ratio (HAR) satellites, also known as flat satellites, or FlatSats.

We’re proud to share our findings and showcase three innovative HAR concepts developed during this research.

What Are HAR Satellites?

a flat satellite concept from reflex aerospace for the european space agency's study into HAR satellites

High Aspect Ratio (HAR) satellites, also known as FlatSats, represent a forward-thinking approach to satellite design. Their key characteristic is a length more than four times their thickness. This innovative design delivers:

  • Enhanced performance due to larger surface areas

  • Improved manufacturing efficiency, enabling faster production

  • Optimal use of launch vehicles through efficient stackability

  • Superior drag management in orbit

Three Concepts

Secure Broadband Constellation

flatsat concept from reflex aerospace

140-satellite constellation for secure point-to-point connectivity.

  • Optimized for mass production and stackability

  • Up to 60 satellites launched simultaneously based on hexagonal deployer

flatsat concept delivered to ESA from reflex aerospace

SAR Earth Observation Platform

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities.

  • Mounted on central dispenser rings; three satellites stackable in single rideshare slot

flatsat har satellite concept from reflex aerospace

Modular Bus Platform

Designed to establish new HAR satellite standards via standardized building blocks.

  • Hexagonal transfer vehicle architecture

  • 13 configurable slots for maximum flexibility

Are “Flatellites” the Future?

Our research demonstrates that HAR configurations, or FlatSats, represent a significant opportunity for the European space sector.

They enable cost reduction, mass manufacturing, sustainable space operations, and enhanced mission-specific performance capabilities.