MICRO Dragsail
Frond Space Systems
The MICRO Dragsail is a low-mass, configurable deorbiting system for microsatellites in LEO, featuring a 10m² deployed area to effectively deorbit 50-200kg satellites.
Key figurescomparable across the catalogue
- Mass
- 2 kg
Normalised to common units so this product can be compared with others in its category. The supplier's own wording is below.
As published by the supplier
- Mass
- <2 kg
- Deployed area
- 10m2
- Target satellite mass
- 50-200 kg
- Operational temperature range
- -30°C to +60°C
- Environmental qualification
- GEVS levels (14.1Grms)
- Supply voltage
- 8-12 V
- Interface
- I2C, CAN, RS-422
About
The MICRO Dragsail is an effective deorbiting solution for microsatellites operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This system is designed to meet the growing need for responsible space operations, particularly in light of regulations like the US FCC policy requiring deorbiting within 5 years of end of mission. It offers a robust alternative to propulsion systems for deorbiting, especially in scenarios where spacecraft anomalies might compromise propulsion-based deorbiting. The dragsail is configurable to specific mission needs, offering options such as power line activation, an internal watchdog, self-contained batteries, and independent RF access. With a low mass of less than 2kg, it provides a 10m² deployed area, optimized for deorbiting 50-200kg satellites without adding unnecessary materials or mission complexity. The system is environmentally qualified to GEVS levels (14.1Grms) and operates within a temperature range of -30°C to +60°C, requiring minimal spacecraft interfaces. The design accounts for random tumbling conditions of the spacecraft to ensure compliance in worst-case scenarios, with any aero-stabilization or attitude control during operation being an added benefit. Frond offers a free, non-obligation pre-purchase assessment to help determine if the product is suitable for a given mission.
Documentation
Need the full ICD, test reports or a specific revision? Ask the supplier directly.