HawkEye 360’s Cluster 11 Successfully Launched and Deployed by Space Flight Laboratory
Space Flight Laboratory (SFL) has confirmed the successful launch and deployment of HawkEye 360’s Cluster 11 into orbit. The three-satellite cluster, which represents the latest milestone in HawkEye 360’s space-based radio frequency (RF) detection efforts, was launched on December 21, 2024. This launch, conducted from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard the SpaceX Bandwagon-2 mission, marks the fourth cluster integrated by HawkEye 360 at its Virginia facility under the SFL Flex Production Program. With the deployment of Cluster 11, the total number of satellites developed for HawkEye 360 by SFL now stands at 33.
The successful deployment of Cluster 11 into a sun-synchronous orbit further strengthens HawkEye 360’s position as a leader in space-based RF signal detection and geolocation. HawkEye 360’s mission is to provide actionable RF data and analytics for Global Intelligence (GEOINT) and Electronic Intelligence (ELINT). This technology is crucial for a range of applications, from monitoring radio emissions to identifying potential security threats. The launch of Cluster 11, with its advanced payloads, will significantly enhance HawkEye 360’s ability to collect and analyze RF data across the globe.
SFL, a well-regarded player in the satellite manufacturing industry, has been instrumental in helping HawkEye 360 achieve these advancements. The Canadian company was chosen by HawkEye 360 due to its expertise in satellite systems, particularly in areas such as attitude control and formation flying. These capabilities are essential for ensuring the accuracy of RF signal geolocation, which is central to HawkEye 360’s mission. This collaboration has spanned several years, with HawkEye 360’s first cluster, Pathfinder (Cluster 1), launched in 2018. Since then, HawkEye 360 has continuously expanded its constellation, further cementing its global leadership in space-based RF technology.
The success of the Cluster 11 mission also highlights the flexibility of SFL’s innovative Flex Production Program. This program was introduced to support NewSpace companies by providing a scalable solution for satellite development and production. Through this program, companies like HawkEye 360 can initially contract SFL to develop their first satellite or cluster at SFL’s Toronto facility. Following this, SFL can help these companies set up mass production at their own facilities or third-party sites.
As Dr. Robert E. Zee, Director of SFL, explained, “Flex Production enables NewSpace companies the opportunity to leverage SFL’s Microspace expertise while satisfying the aggressive financial requirements of their business models.” This approach has allowed to efficiently scale its operations while benefitting from SFL’s deep expertise in satellite design and integration.
For SFL handled the complete development process for several previous clusters, including Clusters 2-6 and 9. These clusters were developed, integrated, and tested at SFL’s Toronto facility. For later clusters, including Clusters 7, 8, 10, and 11,360 took on the integration of the RF signal detection payload with SFL’s 30-kg DEFIANT bus at its Virginia plant, with technical guidance provided by SFL. Currently, Cluster 12 is under development in Canada, with further technology upgrades planned for future missions. Cluster 13 is also undergoing integration at Virginia facility.
SFL’s track record is impressive, having developed 82 operationally successful small satellite missions since its founding in 1998. These missions have accumulated over 350 years of total mission time in orbit, demonstrating SFL’s ability to deliver reliable and cost-effective satellite solutions. Currently, SFL is working on 27 additional missions, offering a comprehensive suite of satellites ranging from nano and micro satellites to small satellites weighing up to 500 kilograms. This broad range of capabilities makes SFL a key player in the growing small satellite industry, catering to a wide variety of mission types, including Earth observation, communication, and RF sensing.
The collaboration between SFL and demonstrates the growing importance of space-based RF detection and analytics in today’s global security landscape. As the number of satellites inconstellation continues to expand, the company’s ability to provide real-time, high-fidelity RF data will play a vital role in a wide range of critical applications, including military, commercial, and scientific endeavors. With the successful deployment of Cluster 11, is poised to further enhance its global presence and capabilities in the rapidly evolving field of space-based RF signal detection.