Hera Systems will provide Spacecraft, its Digital Twin and related capabilities in support of the Tetra-5 program awarded to Orion Space Solutions. Space Systems Command (SSC), in partnership with Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), recently announced the selection of Orion Space Solutions under a Tetra-5 Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) valued at up to $44.5 million.
The Tetra-5 program will develop and deploy a constellation of up to three prototype spacecraft to demonstrate key inspection and docking capabilities for on-orbit refueling and the use of next-generation autonomous collaboration techniques to provide comprehensive local area awareness. Under the agreement signed with Orion Space Solutions, Hera Systems will provide the advanced spacecraft, mission unique software, and associated digital twin support for the Tetra-5 constellation, which will operate in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO).
“The DoD seeks to introduce technologies that will strengthen the resilience of its assets in space, and OSS’s proposed approach for Tetra-5 supports these mission objectives,” explains Chad Fish, OSS Chief Operations Officer. “We are excited to be working with Hera Systems as a key partner on this program, which will demonstrate coordinated inspection and on-orbit refueling in geostationary orbit.”

Each Tetra 5 satellite provided by Hera Systems will incorporate government-furnished sensors and fueling ports for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations and Docking (RPOD) that support refueling and rapid inspection operations. Hera Systems will also provide Digital Twin capabilities to enhance the testing and validation of autonomous constellation operations.

“Hera Systems is honored to be part of the Orion Space Solutions team working in support of this important program, critical to the resilience of US Space assets,” states Dr Roger Roberts, CEO of Hera Systems. “On-orbit refueling of satellites extends mission effectiveness, and advanced Digital Twin capabilities directly link spacecraft development with mission testing and training exercises throughout the program life cycle.”