Apex Launches Comet Satellite Bus, Targeting Constellations and Defense Applications

Apex, a satellite manufacturer, has announced its latest and largest spacecraft, the Comet satellite bus, aimed at serving both commercial and governmental constellation clients. This move signifies a major step in addressing the growing demand for advanced satellite technology.

The announcement, made on May 28, reveals that Apex is now accepting orders for Comet, a substantially larger satellite bus compared to its existing Aries and Nova models. The Comet boasts a flat design, enabling it to fit within a five-meter launch vehicle payload fairing while generating over five kilowatts of power. It can accommodate payloads exceeding 500 kilograms.

Ian Cinnamon, CEO of Apex, noted the strong inbound interest from companies seeking to utilize Comet for commercial constellations, similar to SpaceX’s Starlink. Applications include direct-to-device communication and Internet of Things (IoT) services. According to Cinnamon, "Anytime you need a very large antenna in orbit looking down at the ground, it can be very useful."

The defense sector has also shown significant interest in Comet, particularly for roles in the proposed Golden Dome missile defense system. These clients are exploring how Comet could integrate into the sensor layers and space-based interceptor aspects of the system. This highlights the dual-use potential of the new satellite bus, catering to both commercial and military needs.

While Comet is designed for larger applications, Apex continues to see demand for its smaller Aries and Nova buses. Cinnamon explained that specific mission requirements dictate the best fit: communications constellations may benefit from Comet’s power and antenna capabilities, while remote sensing systems might be better served by the smaller Aries. This strategic approach to a diverse product line enables Apex to capture a broader market share.

Production of all three satellite buses will take place at Apex’s Los Angeles factory. However, the lead time for Comet is expected to be 24 months. Cinnamon anticipates that customers will typically order between 10 and 20 Comet units, sufficient to populate an entire launch vehicle for a constellation.

Comet incorporates lessons learned from the development of Aries and Nova, leading to a more vertically integrated supply chain. According to Cinnamon, leveraging in-house components for Comet has resulted in a unique shape that maximizes space within a Falcon 9 or any five-meter fairing. This approach also helps drive down the price point, making business cases more viable.

Although Apex has not disclosed specific pricing, Cinnamon indicated that Comet will likely cost in the "mid-single-digit millions" per spacecraft. This positions Comet competitively within the market for advanced satellite buses.

While Apex doesn't currently plan to build larger spacecraft to leverage the capabilities of SpaceX’s Starship, the company remains focused on the present market opportunities. Cinnamon emphasized, "We focus on where the market is today and where there’s money to be made today."

The unveiling of Comet represents a strategic move for Apex, solidifying its position in the burgeoning satellite market. With its focus on both commercial and defense applications, and a vertically integrated approach, Apex is poised for continued growth and innovation. Will Comet become a pivotal component in future satellite constellations? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.

• Apex
• Comet satellite bus
• Golden Dome