Phoenix PODs. Photo: SSL

[Via Satellite 07-22-2014] The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has selected SSL to build flight hardware capable of taking a variety of small missions to space aboard the company’s geostationary (GEO) satellite platform. SSL said it intends to use the SSL 1300 platform, integrating the first Payload Orbital Delivery System (PODs) for carrying small spacecraft beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

SSL plans to work with commercial customers and government agencies on the first use of the PODs platform as well as other future missions. The majority of small satellites are launched into LEO, with very few methods of accessing GEO. The PODs platform will enable science and technology space missions and other small satellite projects, as well as in-orbit servicing.