Special to WorldTribune.com

TEL AVIV — Israel plans to approve a design for its first
micro-satellite that could be launched from aircraft.

The Defense Ministry has overseen a project for the development of a
satellite with a maximum weight of 100 kilograms for both space- and
air-launch.

Officials said the program was assigned to several defense
majors, including Elbit Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

“The program’s first challenge is the design stage, after which there
will be decisions on future funding,” an official said.

Rafael has been the leader in the project. The company has designed a
reconnaissance satellite with an electro-optic payload with a high
resolution of less than one meter. Officials said the platform, meant to
enter an orbit of up to 400 kilometers above earth, would provide a stream of panchromatic images of enemy military facilities, particularly in Iran.

Under the project, the Rafael satellite could be launched by an aircraft
with an air-to-air missile. Another option was that Israel’s Shavit rocket
launcher could send up to four such micro-satellites to form a constellation
to ensure persistent surveillance.

A senior Rafael executive said the company, which has developed electric
thrusters for space vehicles, would conduct its preliminary design review of
the satellite in the summer of 2012. The executive, program manager Yaakov
Sharoni, said capabilities and cost would be assessed and revised
before the next stage of development.

Sharoni said the project could require a foreign partner. Rafael has
identified several prospective partners in France and India.

“We are speaking with many customers and nations all over the world
because we are seeking cooperation to proceed with the full-scale
development.” Sharoni said.

  Elbit Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries, Israel developing micro-satellite launched by air-to-air missile, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Shavit rocket launcher