Launching and functionality of the Otter
SpaceX has the market cornered on satellite launches today . But other players are emerging , such as Rocket Lab and the upcoming Ariane 6 rocket . As many satellite companies are coming to market , there will likely be an increasing need for launch capacity . Starfish is not a launch company and plans to rely on partners for Otters ’ rides to orbit .
The focus instead will be on making their satellite servicing technology functional and safe . For example , they need to be able to dock with a moving target safely . Kneller said that satellites in low-Earth orbit are traveling at 7,000 meters per second , and “ To maneuver near a satellite that costs millions to build , it requires reliable autonomous software to dock .”
The technology is developing , including the capture mechanism and guidance , navigation , and control software . Starfish Space is comprised of former Blue Origin and NASA engineers working together to solve these specific problems within the evolving space ecosystem . Kneller noted that “ So many startups came from Blue Origin and SpaceX engineering — for a space startup , it is important to have technical founders — many space companies are perceived to be a bit crazy . It helps to have Austin and Trevor leading the way at Starfish .” Kneller said they are good people to work for .
In summary
Starfish Space is memorable because of the clever naming of the products . But the company is much more than an Earth-based business with an ocean theme . They are explorers looking toward a future in space that is still to be defined . Like ocean exploration and our understanding of Earth ’ s sea creatures , Starfish Space is boldly going into a new final frontier .
Contact Information Starfish Space 16300 Christensen Rd . Suite # 300 Tukwila , Washington 98188 www . starfishspace . com hello @ starfishspace . com
14 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS