Rainbow – A Launch Capability For Small Satellites From Esrange, Sweden

• Main Authors: Ytterskog, Anne, Rathsman, Anna
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: DigitalCommons@USU 2015
• Subjects: Arctic; Esrange
• Online Access: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/smallsat/2015/all2015/13; https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3177&context=smallsat

As the number of small satellites increase so does the need for dedicated launch opportunities and to carefully designed orbits. To meet these needs, SSC has initiated project Rainbow, a launch capability for small satellites from Esrange Space Center. Esrange is located in the very north of Sweden, above the Arctic Circle (68°N, 21°E) and has access to a vast, unpopulated area. The facility has been operated since 1966 and is presently used for sounding rocket and balloon launches. It also hosts one of the world’s largest civilian satellite ground stations. SSC has conducted a phase A study to investigate if a satellite launch service can be implemented at Esrange and the result shows it is feasible. The launch service is intended for 1-150 kg satellites; however, CubeSats are the target payloads. The launch service will enable a standardized orbit suitable for most CubeSats and the launch period will be fixed. A phase B1 study is ongoing and next phase, B2 will commence in the end of 2015/beginning of 2016. The goal is to launch the first satellite from Esrange in 2020.