Portal Space Systems Selects Atomic-6's Space Armor for 2026 Satellite Mission
Portal Space Systems has selected Atomic-6's Space Armor tiles for debris protection in its Starburst-1 satellite mission, scheduled for launch on SpaceX's Transporter-18 in October 2026. This mission will mark the first in-orbit test of Space Armor, which is designed to safeguard against high-speed impacts while being lighter and thinner than traditional shields. Developed with a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, the technology aims to enhance maneuverability and validate performance for future spacecraft.

Portal Space Systems has chosen Atomic-6's Space Armor tiles as the primary micrometeoroid and orbital debris protection for its satellite, which will launch on SpaceX's Transporter-18 mission in October 2026. This mission will be the first in-orbit test of Space Armor, designed to protect against high-speed debris impacts while minimizing secondary debris.
The Space Armor tiles, which are about 30% lighter and 15% thinner than traditional Whipple shields, will support Portal's focus on sustained maneuverability during extended missions. The mission, known as Starburst-1, aims to validate critical installation and performance procedures for future spacecraft.
Atomic-6 developed Space Armor under a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, and the technology is positioned as an alternative to traditional metallic debris shields.




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