Cobalt + Gimbal

Cobalt sets a new standard for small optical intersatellite link (OISL) terminals. The Cobalt + Gimbal variant is a fully self-contained optical communication terminal featuring an integrated gimbal and star cameras that allow it to self-orient, greatly simplifying integration with the host spacecraft.

Unlike conventional OISL systems that require precise attitude knowledge and control from the host spacecraft, Cobalt handles link acquisition and pointing autonomously. Near-instantaneous link acquisition is achieved through the novel patented acquisition technology developed by Blue Cubed.

Cobalt delivers license-free broadband connectivity between satellites with industry-leading size, weight, and power (SWaP) for a gimbaled OISL terminal. The system is designed for plug-and-play integration — think of it as an Ethernet cable between satellites.

Key features include self-orienting operation that does not disrupt mission con-ops, near-instantaneous link acquisition, license-free broadband connectivity, and easy plug-and-play integration without costly NRE. A gimbal-less variant of Cobalt is available upon request for missions with tight volume constraints.