Direct Kinetic Solutions Inc — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A19-166

Description

In this project, Direct Kinetic Solutions (DKS) introduces an economic and low-latency CubeSat constellation for swift and enhanced communication network for the ARMY. The constellation consists of a large number of Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance CubeSats (ISRC), which are powered by isotopic batteries positioned behind the solar arrays. DKS team is working closely with the Army Research Lab (ARL), who has fabricated the isotropic batteries by placing a beta-emitting isotope between p-n junctions. The arrangement bears the potential to generate exceptional power, about 10mW-100mW per 100 sq-cm. Isotopic batteries allows the replacement of lithium batteries, which creates additional space and weight for sophisticated ISR payloads. Besides, uninterrupted power from isotopic batteries enable the ISRC to be operational during the eclipse phases of orbit. In addition to the isotopic batteries, high-quality imagery payload system is proposed in this work. DKS proposes the use of high altitude balloons to launch the ISRCs into Lower Earth Orbit at a minimum cost, during the operation from the field or from a TOC. The ISRC launched from the field will offer a communication boost for hours as well as a bird's eye view of the field to enhance commands, and execute missions more effectively.