# **Albedo and the Future of Very Low-Earth Orbit Satellites**
## **Introduction**
The idea of deploying satellites in very low-Earth orbit (VLEO) is not a recent development. Dating back to the late 1950s, early American intelligence satellites, including those part of the Corona project, functioned at altitudes ranging from 120 to 160 km (75 to 100 miles). These lower orbits facilitated high-resolution imaging; however, they brought about significant hurdles, notably atmospheric drag.
For a large portion of the space age, satellites have been launched into higher orbits—typically situated between 400 and 800 km (250 and 500 miles)—to reduce drag while ensuring effective communications and imaging capabilities. Nevertheless, recent technological advancements have sparked renewed interest in VLEO, with companies like Albedo leading the way in innovative satellite imaging solutions.
## **Albedo: A New Player in Satellite Imaging**
Based in Denver, Albedo is emerging as a leader in the commercialization of VLEO technology. The startup was established by former Lockheed Martin engineers Topher Haddad and Ayjay Lasater, alongside software engineer Winston Tri from Facebook. Since 2021, the company has secured over $100 million in funding. Their mission is to create satellites that can capture images with an unparalleled resolution of 10 cm.
### **Why VLEO?**
The foremost benefit of operating satellites in VLEO is the capability to obtain ultra-high-resolution images, akin to those captured by aircraft or drones. At present, such high-resolution imagery is predominantly available through government spy satellites or necessitates costly aerial surveys. Albedo intends to fill this void by offering commercial access to high-resolution satellite imagery.
“Often the only practical options are helicopters or drones,” Haddad explained. “However, there are numerous areas on the planet that restrict overflights, and the expenses for regular aerial surveys accumulate rapidly.”
## **Clarity-1: Albedo’s First Satellite**
Albedo is preparing to launch its inaugural satellite, Clarity-1, using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket as part of the “Transporter-13” mission. The launch is anticipated to occur from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
### **Technical Details**
– **Weight:** 530 kg (1,170 pounds)
– **Initial Orbit:** 500–600 km (310–370 miles)
– **Operational Orbit:** 274 km (170 miles)
– **Design Lifetime:** Roughly five years (subject to variations in the solar cycle)
Clarity-1 represents a complete version of Albedo’s satellite design, similar in size to a phone booth. Once in orbit, it will attempt to descend to 274 km, enabling it to capture high-resolution images.
## **Challenges of VLEO Operations**
While VLEO presents considerable benefits in terms of image resolution, it also brings about distinct challenges:
### **1. Atmospheric Drag**
At reduced altitudes, satellites face increased atmospheric resistance, necessitating frequent orbital adjustments. This results in higher fuel consumption and restricts the satellite’s operational lifespan.
### **2. Atomic Oxygen and Plasma Interference**
Atomic oxygen in the upper atmosphere can be detrimental to satellite materials due to its high reactivity, which may lead to component degradation over time. Moreover, plasma disturbances and other atmospheric phenomena can disrupt satellite functionality.
### **3. Precision Imaging Difficulties**
Achieving high-resolution images from VLEO involves intricate pointing and attitude control systems. “The most challenging aspect is pointing and attitude control,” noted Haddad. “In VLEO, the Earth’s rotation beneath the satellite occurs more rapidly, further complicating the stabilization of the imaging system.”
## **Future Prospects and Market Demand**
Albedo has obtained a contract worth up to $12 million from the US Air Force Research Laboratory to deliver VLEO-specific data and analysis. The company is also collaborating with commercial clients across various sectors, such as:
– **Energy:** Overseeing power grids and pipelines
– **Agriculture:** Evaluating crop health and land usage
– **Infrastructure:** Inspecting solar farms and urban expansion
Looking ahead, Albedo aims to grow its satellite constellation to around 24 satellites, contingent on market demand.
## **Conclusion**
Albedo’s initiatives to commercialize VLEO satellite imaging have the potential to transform the industry by delivering high-resolution imagery at significantly lower costs than traditional aerial surveys. While obstacles such as atmospheric drag and material degradation persist, advancements in satellite technology and operational methodologies may render VLEO a viable choice for both commercial and governmental uses.
With the forthcoming launch of Clarity-1, Albedo is set to showcase the viability of its technology and usher in a new era of Earth observation.
