Introducing Astrix
The modern world increasingly relies upon satellite-enabled services; those satellites rely on solar arrays for power. Bigger is better when it comes to generating electricity through solar, but a larger size and mass comes with higher cost, and existing technologies have limitations. In addition to that, the trend is for constellations of smaller satellites, for which the traditional satellite power systems are just too heavy, bulky and costly.
Astrix Astronautics’s unique inflatable solar array deployment systems significantly reduce the cost and complexity of powering spacecraft while having a perfect footprint for these smaller satellites. This revolutionary system opens new opportunities for the space industry, not only providing lower-cost, high-performance solutions for satellite operators but opening up opportunities for a range of other space structures such as radiators, Antenna, heat shields and drag sails.
Who are Astrix
Founders Max Daniels and Will Hunter first met at the Auckland Program for Space Systems, a student competition to develop a small satellite mission. Early in the competition they were warned about the limitations of space power generation. Rather than just accepting this, they decided to tackle the challenge head on.
Their innovation, named Copia, uses inflation to replace a complex network of hinges and springs. Solar cells are attached to a flexible sheet, with inflatable tubes underneath. This folds up into a compact space for launch. Once in space, the unit releases gas into the inflatable tubes, deploying the solar array from the side of the satellite. The result is a solar array that is 20 times more space efficient, 4 times more mass efficient and is 75% faster to produce.
Copia hitched a ride aboard Rocket Lab’s “There and back again” mission in 2022 for its first in-orbit test.
Benefits to the innovation ecosystem
Astrix have already been working alongside some of New Zealand’s leading Astronautics companies, such as OutThere Astronautics, Zenno and Rocket Lab, to share knowledge and help drive forward the sector. The company will be supporting the same educational programmes that helped to launch their business, to help give a leg up to the kiwi space businesses of tomorrow.
Today, there is no other company in New Zealand manufacturing or exporting power systems for satellites. In future, Astrix will work directly in the development of a manufacturing centre for a diverse range of solar and space-related industries.
Their contribution to the innovation ecosystem doesn’t end with the aeronautics industry. Their inflatable array inevitably has a number of potential applications across the globe, benefiting a number of areas within the national and international innovation ecosystems. Astrix are already in conversations with Emrod regarding their space-based power networks and could play an active part in their Worldwide Energy Matrix.
What the panel had to say about Astrix:
Astrix had a very strong application with solid evidence, supported by a passionate and inclusive team pitch presentation. The panel specifically noted the team effort of delivering the presentation, shared amongst the team members, which was inclusive and authentic.
The Copia device is clearly well considered, and the panel appreciated the simple explanation.
Max and Will are right at the start of their innovation journey but are already making substantial waves in the national and international space industries. We’re excited to follow their future successes.
How Astrix will be investing their grant
The key focus for Astrix is the development of pre-production facilities and building demonstration units, alongside finalizing and testing designs and securing IP.
The team is set to grow, with expanded sales and marketing teams, along with further product development teams.
“We are incredibly honoured to be recognized as an Ārohia Trailblazer. This support validates the hard work the team has put into developing this transformative technology and it’s rewarding to know that our work will contribute to New Zealand’s thriving innovation ecosystem.
The Ārohia Trailblazer Grant will enable us to scale our innovation with greater speed to deliver pre-production units for our flight heritage program.”
Simon Lempriere, Astrix Astronautics, Head of Operations/Business Development
Astrix's inflatable, rigidizing solar arrays for spacecraft
Astrix
Founded: 2021
Sector/industry: Astronautics
Think you could be a Trailblazer?
