UK Space Command Contracts with SSTL for Carbonite+ Satellite

Project TYCHE is the first satellite procurement for the MINERVA programme which is a key enabler in the development of the foundation for a UK Space-based Intelligence Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) constellation under programme ISTARI. Delivered under a three year build programme, the TYCHE mission will be compatible with both horizontal as well as vertical launch. TYCHE will be operated from SSTL’s Spacecraft Operations Centre in Guildford.

The key outcome of project TYCHE will be a robust understanding and analysis of the integration activities, test environments and interfaces required to establish and maintain UK MOD rights to freely operate a space based Intelligence Surveillance and Recognisance (ISR) capability. The project also aims to understand security requirements, risks and identify further activities which may be required to mature the ISTARI ISR capability.

The Project TYCHE contract provides sustained employment at SSTL, with up to 100 employees directly contributing to the successful project delivery, together with increased opportunities for UK start-ups, SMEs, and VSCE’s to become involved with an annual growth target of 5%.