BAE Systems introduces Ascent™ spacecraft to support space superiority and exploration

BAE Systems introduced its Ascent spacecraft as a new addition to the company’s Elevation spacecraft line. The company said the platform is designed to support missions that involve moving payloads and deploying cargo in multiple orbital environments.

BAE Systems described Ascent as part of its Elevation lineup of standardized spacecraft products, which also includes Summit™ and Trek™ platforms. The company said it scheduled delivery of the first pathfinder spacecraft for Ascent by 2027.

According to BAE Systems, Ascent was designed for dynamic space operations, including capabilities for refueling and high-thrust propulsion. The spacecraft is also described as carrying multiple rideshare payloads and supporting the transport and deployment of small satellites and cargo to the moon, along with hosting instruments and payloads in lunar and other orbits.

BAE Systems said the rideshare capability supports hosting multiple payloads on a single launch vehicle. It added that Ascent spacecraft support missions to LEO Constellation (Low Earth Orbit), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), Geostationary Orbit (GEO), and beyond.

“The addition of Ascent to our Elevation spacecraft line delivers new dynamic space operations capabilities to counter cislunar threats,” said Thai Sheridan, vice president and general manager of Military Space for BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems. “Ascent supports multi-mission mobility capabilities and spacecraft logistics in expanded orbital environments, featuring a highly maneuverable platform.”

“The ability to deploy Ascent spacecraft as a 'space tug' to transport essential cargo across orbits enhances support of critical exploration and space science missions facilitating our return to the moon,” said Bonnie Patterson, vice president and general manager of Civil Space for BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems.