MDA Space Picks Jena-Optronik Star Sensor for LEO

The ASTRO HP's radiation-hard detector and modular design give satellite builders a precise navigation option without a platform redesign.

By The space-quantum Desk

MDA Space will fly Jena-Optronik's ASTRO HP star sensor on a low-Earth-orbit mission, marking a milestone for the partnership and the rollout of the first flight-ready ASTROlib software version for this particular program. [1]

At the hardware level, the ASTRO HP optical head pairs a radiation-hard Faintstar2 detector with fast optics in a compact, lightweight package built for small and medium-sized satellites. [1] The design draws on two earlier Jena-Optronik platforms: the precision and agility of the ASTRO APS3 and the flight-proven electronics and software of the ASTRO CL. [1]

Beyond attitude control, the ASTROlib layer adds Space Situational Awareness capabilities — a growing priority as LEO congestion increases. [2]

What the partnership signals is less about a single sensor and more about where satellite procurement is heading: modular, heritage-traceable components that slot into existing platforms rather than demanding bespoke architectures.

[1][2]

As vast as the universe is, there is no space for inaccuracy: sensors by Jena-Optronik keep satellites and spacecrafts stable and on track.Jena-Optronik