Case Study: Jacobs achieves rapid, secure on-orbit validation of next-generation payloads with Spire’s hosted 3U satellite services

Jacobs next-generation payload demonstrations powered by Spire’s hosted payload services

Jacobs needed a faster, lower-risk way to validate a next-generation commercial space-based AESA sensor in orbit, but traditional on-orbit testing is costly and time consuming. Jacobs partnered with Spire and used Spire’s hosted payload services on a 3U satellite platform to reduce risk, maintain control, and accelerate time to orbit.

Spire provided a secure, end-to-end hosted payload solution—on-site integration, launch support, FCC licensing, an encrypted uplink/downlink via a dedicated X-band ground station, and a tasking API while leaving payload operations autonomous to Jacobs. The Jacobs payload launched in January 2021 on a SpaceX Falcon 9, delivering cost-effective, secure access to space; as a result Jacobs has committed to two additional hosted payload launches with Spire to support rapid iteration and faster technology maturation.

Jacobs

James Elder

Vice President