High-Aspect Ratio Satellite Platforms
UNDERSTANDING AND LEVERAGING THE POTENTIAL OF FLAT SATELLITE CONFIGURATIONS
A Collaboration for Future Flexibility
Reflex Aerospace, in collaboration with Novaspace and Initium Space Consulting, recently completed a comprehensive study for the European Space Agency examining the transformative potential of High Aspect Ratio (HAR) satellites, also known as flat satellites.
We’re proud to share our findings and showcase three innovative HAR concepts developed during this research.
What Are HAR Satellites?
High Aspect Ratio satellites represent a forward-thinking approach to satellite design, featuring configurations where the length is over four times larger than the thickness. This innovative design enables:
Enhanced performance through larger surface areas
Improved manufacturing efficiency
Optimal launch vehicle utilization through stackability
Superior drag management capabilities
Three Concepts
Secure Broadband Constellation
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
SAR Earth Observation Platform
Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities.
Mounted on central dispenser rings; three satellites stackable in single rideshare slot
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 flat satellites, represent a significant opportunity for the European space sector.
They enable cost reduction, mass manufacturing, sustainable space operations, and enhanced mission-specific performance capabilities.