Advanced GEO technology-demonstration satellite based on SmallGEO bus, hosting flexible in-orbit verification payloads for DLR.
Heinrich Hertz (H2Sat) Platform
Advanced GEO technology-demonstration satellite based on SmallGEO bus, hosting flexible in-orbit verification payloads for DLR.
Description
The Heinrich Hertz satellite (H2Sat) represents an advanced application of OHB System AG's SmallGEO (LUXOR) geostationary bus, commissioned by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and launched in July 2023. With a launch mass of approximately 3,408 kg, H2Sat is designed for technology demonstration and communications technology verification in geostationary orbit, providing European industry with a national in-orbit testbed for next-generation satellite components and systems.
Built by OHB System AG as prime contractor under a contract valued at EUR 310.5 million, the satellite hosts experimental payloads from German and European industry and research institutions, demonstrating flexible high-throughput communications capabilities and qualifying new satellite technologies ahead of commercial deployment.
Specifications
| Orbit | Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) |
|---|---|
| Launch Mass | ~3,408 kg |
| Platform Bus | SmallGEO (LUXOR) |
| Launch Date | July 2023 |
| Customer | DLR (German Aerospace Center) |
| Contract Value | EUR 310.5 million |
| Mission Type | Technology demonstration / communications |