OKAPI:Orbits helps Rapid Cubes and TU Berlin locate and establish connection with OOV-Cube satellite.

Berlin, Germany, 21 August 2024

OKAPI:Orbits has successfully assisted Rapid Cubes GmbH and the Chair of Space Technology of the Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) in locating and establishing a connection with their recently launched OOV-Cube satellite. The satellite, launched on Ariane-6 in early July, was the first joint satellite between the Chair of Space Technology at TU Berlin and Rapid Cubes. With the help of OKAPI:Orbits' advanced data fusion capabilities, they were able to start the commissioning of their spacecraft.

Mission background

Rapid Cubes, a spin-out of the Chair of Space Technology of TU Berlin, launched the OOV-Cube satellite with great anticipation, aiming to contribute to various research and development initiatives in space technology. However, after the satellite was inserted into its transfer orbit, they encountered difficulties in establishing a connection with their asset. Additionally, the absence of published Two-Line Elements (TLEs) from Space Track added to the challenge of locating the satellite amidst the batch released by the launch vehicle.

OKAPI:Orbits' intervention

OKAPI:Orbits, utilising its extensive data platform and sophisticated algorithms, was able to narrow down the potential orbit fit candidates from the batch of released satellites, ultimately identifying the OOV-Cube satellite.

"Our team was determined to support Rapid Cubes and TU Berlin in their mission. By leveraging our advanced data fusion technology and expertise, we were able to provide precise data that enabled TU Berlin to locate their satellite and establish communication. This collaboration underscores the importance of reliable, high-accuracy data management in ensuring the success of satellite missions."Christopher Kebschull, CTO & Co-Founder, OKAPI:Orbits

Successful outcome

With the information provided by OKAPI:Orbits, TU Berlin successfully identified the OOV-Cube satellite and established a stable connection. This achievement highlights the critical role of collaboration and technological innovation in overcoming challenges in space operations.

"We are happy to have successfully closed the commissioning phase and are excited to start our regular payload operations. Especially our students can't wait to test their cloud classifying machine learning algorithms on board."Alexander Balke, head of OOV-Cube operations, TU Berlin

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