Article: The Importance of Miniature Valves on Satellite Design

By Caroline Rees / 16 Nov 2016

Smart Sourcing for Unmanned Systems

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Importance of Miniature Valves on Satellite Design
Follow UST

Marotta Controls, Inc. has released a technical article which looks at the importance that miniature valves have on the design of satellites.

The article covers a number of different miniature satellite valves, highlighting the capabilities and features that should be evaluated by designers when they are selecting components for use in satellites. Critically, consideration should be given to size, weight and power, as miniature components can increase satellite performance and mission lifetime while decreasing system size and complexity.

‘Miniature satellite valves pack a lot of performance in a small package, yet they are not all created equal.’  Writes Bryan Reid, Director, Business Development Space Systems, Marotta Controls, Inc.
‘Whether controlling gaseous substances or fluids, these small but powerful components should be evaluated beyond just latching or non-latching capabilities but also for size, weight and power considerations that increase satellite performance and mission lifetime while decreasing system size and complexity. In addition to making room for more payload, the same small but robust valve strategy creates a critical advantage in the event of system add-ons or changes, equipping propulsion architects with options that prevent costly delays in development.’

The article also refers to a number of case studies, detailing how specific valves have been used in various satellite applications:

  • Enabling Oxygen System Add-On For ADM-Aeolus
  • Adding Cold-Gas Micro-propulsion To The LISA Pathfinder
  • Complementing Multi-Function Valves In Spacebus NEO’s Electric Propulsion

Marotta Controls’ flight qualified multi-function valves reduce weight and cost for program applications. Their multi-function technology allows for the use of just one valve for isolation and regulation. Marotta Controls also produce the smallest, most power-efficient latching valve on the market today.

Posted by Caroline Rees Caroline co-founded Unmanned Systems Technology and has been at the forefront of the business ever since. With a Masters Degree in marketing Caroline has her finger on the pulse of all things unmanned and is committed to showcasing the very latest in unmanned technical innovation. Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

Loitering Munitions to be Integrated with Trillium Drone Camera Gimbals

Trillium Engineering has secured a Phase One contract with Raytheon to supply its HD25-LV drone camera gimbal for loitering munitions, supporting operations with tactical EO/IR solutions

Feb 18, 2025
Enhancing USV Navigation with 3D Forward Looking Sonar Technology

FarSounder’s Argos series 3D Forward Looking Sonars enhance USV navigation by providing real-time underwater awareness, overcoming charting limitations, and improving safety across diverse maritime applications

Feb 18, 2025
Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Powered VTOL UAV Introduced

BlueBird Aero Systems introduces the WanderB-VTOL Mini-UAS, built for rapid deployment in any environment and powered by new PEW Fuel-Cell Technology

Feb 18, 2025
Product Spotlight: XPedite7770 High-Performance Single Board Computer

The XPedite7770 from Extreme Engineering Solutions delivers secure, high-performance computing for unmanned systems, featuring Intel® Xeon® D-1700 processors, advanced networking, and SOSA-aligned architecture

Feb 18, 2025
European Drone Battery Maker Opens U.S. Operations

Tulip Tech, a European drone battery manufacturer, is expanding into the U.S. to meet rising demand, offering advanced, high-performance power solutions for drones

Feb 18, 2025
ArduSimple NTRIP RTK Setup for High-Precision Autopilot Navigation

In this tutorial, learn how to use ArduSimple's simpleRTK receivers with Mission Planner and QGroundControl to send NTRIP RTK corrections to your autopilot for improved accuracy

Feb 18, 2025

Featured Content

Gremsy & Nokia to Showcase UAV Integration at XPONENTIAL Europe

At XPONENTIAL Europe 2025, Gremsy’s gimbal and payload technology will be paired with Nokia’s connectivity solutions, creating smarter, more efficient UAV systems

Feb 13, 2025
Military Vehicles to Feature Small Tethered UAS from Elistair

Elistair has secured a €3 million contract to equip military vehicles with tethered UAS, enhancing real-time intelligence and operational awareness

Feb 13, 2025
Ellipse Series Enhanced with Latest Firmware Upgrade

The new firmware update from SBG Systems integrates the latest World Magnetic Model (WMM) to improve navigation precision, even for first-generation Ellipse sensors

Feb 11, 2025