Scout Space Signs Launch Agreement with ABL Space Systems for Owlet-01 Telescope

Scout Space, a startup specializing in space domain awareness through in-space observation, has signed a launch services agreement with ABL Space Systems for the launch of Scout’s “Owlet-01” telescope aboard ABL’s third flight of their RS1 small-satellite launch vehicle. Launch is set for no earlier than later this year; contingent upon the success of ABL’s forthcoming second launch attempt.

Scout Space, based in Reston, Virginia, is renowned for developing optical sensors used in space traffic management and various other applications. The Owlet-01 telescope is a variant of the company’s Owl telescope, specifically designed for military applications in geostationary and cislunar orbits.

The Owlet-01 will be integrated on a 16U cubesat and is set to perform a “risk reduction mission". The Owlet-01 mission aims to validate the optical sensor and demonstrate the company’s data analytics software.

Philip Hover-Smoot, the CEO of Scout Space has shared that the decision to choose ABL was influenced by timing considerations.

“The market is fairly tight right now,” - Philip Hover-Smoot, the CEO of Scout Space

Scout Space explored the option of booking a ride on a SpaceX Transporter smallsat rideshare, but this would have entailed a wait of over a year for an available slot. Conversely, ABL has committed to launching the Owlet mission before the year’s end.

“We are realistic about the risks associated with launching on a new vehicle, but we’re confident in ABL,” - Philip Hover-Smoot, the CEO of Scout Space

ABL Space Systems, headquartered in El Segundo, California, has yet to achieve a successful launch of its two-stage RS1 rocket. The first attempt in January 2023 encountered an anomaly, and the company is currently preparing for its second launch attempt.

“We’re excited that Scout Space has chosen RS1 to deliver their critical technology demonstrator to orbit and look forward to strengthening our partnership through this mission and into the future.” - Dan Piemont, President and Chief Financial Officer of ABL Space Systems

As Scout Space continues to develop and deploy its innovative optical sensors, the successful launch and operation of the Owlet-01 will be a significant milestone. This mission not only aims to prove the capabilities of their technology but also to cement Scout’s position in the burgeoning field of space domain awareness. The success of this launch could pave the way for more advanced missions, including further deployments in geostationary and cislunar orbits, areas of increasing strategic importance.

For ABL Space Systems, a successful launch will bolster their credentials and reliability in the competitive small-satellite launch market.