TechSat-21

TechSat-21
Artist's rendition
Mission typeTechnology
OperatorAFRL, STP, NASA
Spacecraft properties
ManufacturerMicroSat Systems
Launch mass181 kilograms (399 lb)
Start of mission
Launch dateNot launched
RocketAtlas V 401
Launch siteCape Canaveral SLC-41
Orbital parameters
Reference systemGeocentric
RegimeLow Earth
Perigee altitude560 kilometers (350 mi)
Apogee altitude560 kilometers (350 mi)
Inclination35.4& degrees
EpochPlanned

TechSat-21 (Technology Satellite of the 21st Century) was a small spacecraft developed by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory's Space Vehicles Directorate to test technology for formation flight of spacecraft which can rapidly change formation based on mission requirements.[1] The project was canceled in 2003 due to numerous cost overruns.[2]

  1. ^ Staff Writers (2002-04-16). "MicroSat Systems Contract Raytheon For SAR Payload". Space Daily. Retrieved 2008-07-28.
  2. ^ Singer, Jeremy (2006-12-07). "DARPA To Solicit Bids for Formation Flying Studies". Space News. Retrieved 2008-07-28.