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Satellite with FAST
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Boeing Satellite Systems in El Segundo, CA won a $13.8 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for Phase 2 of the Fast Access Spacecraft Testbed (FAST) satellite power generation and propulsion program. The objective of the FAST program is the development and demonstration of a high power generation and propulsion system for mobile satellites.

DARPA’s FAST program is a multiphase effort to design and develop a ground test prototype of a new High Power Generation Subsystem (HPGS) for mobile satellites. DID has more on the FAST program…

The HPGS integrates solar-concentrator, power-conversion, and heat-rejection satellite systems supported by a lightweight structure and deployment system for tracking the sun. When combined with electric thrusters, the HPGS will produce a lightweight power and propulsion system capable of providing responsive spacecraft maneuverability for on-orbit servicing, space-based situational awareness, and high-power payloads such as communication and radar systems. The HPGS would be able to generate as much as 50-80 kw for operational users at high power levels (130 W/kg or better).

Boeing was awarded the Phase 1 contract, in which the company developed a plan for a FAST demonstration system. Phase 2 work will include fabrication, assembly and testing of two HPGS prototypes to validate performance characteristics in simulated space environments. An on-orbit demonstration of the system may be conducted following the ground test program.

Boeing will perform the Phase II work in El Segundo, CA (69.53%); San Diego, CA (17.14%); Albuquerque, NM (5.59%); Carpentaria, CA (3.38%); Foothills, CA (2.77%), West Hills, CA (0.89%); and College Station, TX (0.25%) with an estimated completion date of September 1/10. 2 bids were solicited with 2 bids received by DARPA in Arlington, VA (HR0011-08-C-0086).