D-Orbit's ION Vehicles Deploy Satellites in Groundbreaking SpaceX Launch

D-Orbit launched two ION orbital transfer vehicles on 26 November 2022. The mission lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-15 rideshare. The vehicles carried multiple satellites and hosted payloads into a 510-kilometre sun-synchronous orbit. The ION mission supported a range of objectives. These included satellite communications, Earth observation, and technology demonstrations for various organisations. Italy’s first optical intersatellite link (OISL) mission was among the payloads onboard.

Spaceium demonstrated robotic actuators for in-orbit fuel transfer during the flight. Pale Blue also tested its compact gridded ion engine, which used water as propellant. StardustMe sent one-gram capsules of cremated human remains into orbit as a hosted payload.

Among the satellites deployed were four internet-of-things units from Spire and Lacuna Space. These aim to provide low-cost, reliable global connections for sensors and mobile equipment in remote areas. The AI-eXpress mission, co-funded by ESA InCubed, delivered on-orbit software services and data processing for a space-based app store. Aalto University’s Foresail-1 cubesat was also part of the launch, tasked with monitoring Earth’s radiation environment and testing deorbiting technologies. The ION vehicles successfully delivered their payloads to the intended orbit. The mission showcased advancements in propulsion, communication, and space-based services. Multiple organisations now have operational satellites and demonstrations in progress.