Honeywell to Deliver Miniature Control Moment Gyroscope System To U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory

Nov. 18, 2008
Mini momentum control system saves up to 30 percent of weight over larger systems and is about half the size.

PHOENIX – Honeywell, a provider of space navigation systems and electronics, has been selected to provide the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory with a mini momentum control system for space missions.

The system will include four control momentum gyroscopes, space hardened electronics, a vibration isolation system, and a Plug-and-Play interface.

"Honeywell’s mini momentum control system saves up to 30 percent of weight over larger systems and is about 50 percent smaller," says Dave Douglass, Vice President, Honeywell Space. "It also produces less vibration, a critical factor for satellites with precision payloads. It easily integrates with other materials and systems on the satellite, and is scheduled for delivery in 2010."

Faster maneuverability and precision is becoming more and more critical as satellites provide data relay and connectivity for commercial uses including the cellular phone industry, satellite TV, and other consumer services. In addition, military and defense programs are utilizing smaller satellites for more responsive missions.

Honeywell is providing avionics, Integrated System Health Management, Crew Interface, and Mission Ground Operations Support for the Orion Crew Vehicle.