True Anomaly, a defense-focused space technology startup, has recently obtained regulatory approval for its first spacecraft reconnaissance mission. With key permits from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), True Anomaly will now be able to demonstrate non-Earth imaging and in-space rendezvous proximity operations. The company’s “Jackal” spacecraft will be utilized for these capabilities during a mission scheduled for early next year. Additionally, True Anomaly announced the opening of its first factory, aimed at producing a spacecraft every five days. By prioritizing national security and protecting space assets, True Anomaly is making significant strides in the space technology industry.

Permits Obtained for First Spacecraft Reconnaissance Mission

True Anomaly, a defense-focused space technology startup, recently received permits from regulatory bodies that will enable them to demonstrate imaging and rendezvous capabilities on-orbit for the first time. These key authorizations were granted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The NOAA authorization allows True Anomaly to perform non-Earth imaging, while the FCC authorization permits them to conduct in-space rendezvous proximity operations. These permits mark an important milestone for True Anomaly, as they prepare for their first spacecraft reconnaissance mission.

Plan for Demonstrating Capabilities

True Anomaly intends to showcase their imaging and rendezvous capabilities using their two “autonomous orbital vehicle” spacecraft, known as Jackals. These spacecraft, weighing 275 kilograms each, will be utilized during a mission scheduled for early next year. To facilitate this mission, True Anomaly has secured a ride on SpaceX’s Transporter-10 rideshare mission, slated to launch in February 2024. Originally, True Anomaly had planned to launch on Transporter-9 in October, but a decision was made to switch to Transporter-10 due to challenges in the supply chain. CEO Even Rogers explained that delays in the supply chain prompted the change in launch date, ensuring a smoother execution of the mission.

Change in Launch Date

The decision to shift from Transporter-9 to Transporter-10 was influenced by supply chain issues experienced by True Anomaly. While their initial target was the Transporter-9 launch, they encountered delays and constraints along the supply chain. Consequently, they opted for a slightly later launch date that aligns with the availability of Transporter-10. This change allows True Anomaly to address the supply chain obstacles and proceed with their spacecraft reconnaissance mission smoothly and efficiently.

Opening of First Factory

True Anomaly recently inaugurated its first factory, called “GravityWorks.” This 35,000-square-foot facility, located in Centennial, Colorado, is a significant milestone for the company. The factory has the capacity to produce a spacecraft every five days, utilizing a manufacturing approach similar to that of automobiles. True Anomaly is committed to not only making spacecraft more affordable and efficient but also to focus on national security and protecting the space domain from threats. CEO Even Rogers emphasized their dedication to securing the space domain, highlighting the importance of their work in the defense sector.

Focus on National Security

True Anomaly aims to provide the Pentagon with defensive technology that can protect American assets in space and conduct reconnaissance on adversary spacecraft. The company, founded by four ex-Space Force members, has received substantial funding of approximately $30 million, including a $17 million Series A round earlier this year. True Anomaly’s CEO, Even Rogers, has previously discussed the “information asymmetry” present between the United States and its adversaries in space. The company seeks to bridge this gap by developing spacecraft capable of rendezvousing with other orbital objects and capturing detailed, close-up images. By doing so, True Anomaly aims to equip the U.S. with valuable intelligence and enhance the nation’s capabilities in space.

Background on True Anomaly

True Anomaly was established by a team of ex-Space Force members who recognized the need for advanced space technology focused on defense and reconnaissance. Their expertise and insight have been instrumental in shaping the direction and mission of the company. True Anomaly has successfully raised $30 million in funding, demonstrating a strong market interest in their unique approach. Their $17 million Series A funding round earlier this year further bolstered their financial standing and enabled them to advance their spacecraft reconnaissance mission.

Closing the Information Gap in Space

One of True Anomaly’s primary objectives is to close the “information asymmetry” between the U.S. and other space actors. To achieve this, they are building spacecraft capable of rendezvous and imaging, allowing for detailed observations and data collection. By developing these advanced capabilities, True Anomaly aims to support U.S. warfighters by providing them with a realistic training system. The Jackal spacecraft will serve as an operational tool for on-orbit training, enabling U.S. warfighters to enhance their skills and tactics while increasing their preparedness for any space-related challenges.

Introduction of Digital and On-Orbit Range Service

True Anomaly recently introduced a digital and on-orbit range service, adding another dimension to their training capabilities. This service enables users to realistically replicate threats and participate in training exercises to test various tactics. By simulating potential scenarios and challenges, True Anomaly provides a training environment that closely resembles real-world situations. The digital and on-orbit range service contributes to the overall effectiveness of their training system and enhances the readiness of U.S. warfighters.

Expansion Plans

True Anomaly has ambitious expansion plans to further solidify their position in the space technology market. They intend to roll out additional hardware lines, offering a diverse range of spacecraft capable of various missions and objectives. With this expansion, True Anomaly aims to have a substantial presence in every orbit, including cislunar orbit. This extensive reach would enable them to provide comprehensive coverage and support to defense and reconnaissance efforts. By envisioning a future with potentially hundreds of spacecraft in every orbit, True Anomaly demonstrates their commitment to advancing space technology and ensuring the security of the space domain.