Space-ng is launching a pioneering and cost-effective solution for aerospace innovation with its rugged, air-cooled Hardware Development Kit (HDK) designed for the space-qualified Sol3 Vision System. This initiative aims to foster exploration and experimentation in computer vision for space applications. In addition to the HDK, Space-ng is providing a Software Development Kit (SDK) that is freely available for evaluation, academic research, and non-commercial use. This open architecture model encourages universities, startups, and established aerospace companies to harness the capabilities of computer vision technology in their laboratories.
SALT LAKE CITY, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The innovative Sol3 ecosystem, encompassing both the HDK and SDK, will be showcased at the 39th Annual Small Satellite Conference taking place from August 10-13, 2025, at Space-ng Booth #2437. Key speakers at the event will include Space-ng Co-Founder and Chief Engineer Steve Bailey.
Space-ng specializes in developing sophisticated computer vision systems, such as its Vision Navigation System (VNS) software, which has been integral for terrain relative navigation, hazard detection, and attitude determination during Firefly Aerospace’s successful Blue Ghost Mission 1 (BGM1). Having completed spaceflight qualification testing for the Sol3 Vision System, Space-ng anticipates the first flight articles will be delivered in Q3 of 2025. This release marks a significant step forward, as Sol3 aims to drive next-generation computer vision applications for autonomous spacecraft, akin to level 5 self-driving technology.
Sol3 Vision System
The Sol3 system integrates both hardware and software components seamlessly, functioning as a robust computer vision system for space applications. It features a sophisticated low-size, weight, and power (SWAP) Base Unit that controls up to 12 high-resolution Camera Modules. The customizable nature of Sol3 allows for user-defined programming, while also supporting hardware-accelerated image processing tasks. The expansive Sol3 ecosystem covers all necessary hardware and software for flight, ground, simulation, and operational support, facilitating a range of applications including optical navigation, lunar landings, autonomous rendezvous, and situational awareness in space.
Sol3 HDK
To enable rapid prototyping and pre-integration testing, Space-ng has developed a version of the Sol3 hardware specifically for earth-based lab environments. The HDK consists of a rugged air-cooled Base Unit, compatible with up to 12 HDK Camera Modules featuring either rolling or global shutters. Notably, the HDK mirrors the functionality and performance of the Sol3 flight hardware, using commercial parts to keep overall costs low. With the Base Unit priced at $5K and Camera Modules starting at $1K, the HDK provides unparalleled access to flight-like systems.
Fast Track from Innovation to Integration
Challenges in developing flight-like hardware environments often result in costly and lengthy processes. The Sol3 HDK and SDK break this cycle, offering a complete, integration-ready platform that accelerates the transition from prototype to test environments. With its proven software framework already utilized in lunar navigation and proximity operations, the HDK offers engineers a tool to rapidly complete workflows and test mission-critical components.
The Sol3 HDK and SDK provide engineers early access to a high-fidelity toolset, facilitating validation of mission concepts and requirements necessary for thorough system performance verification.
From Field Experiments to TRL9
The HDK’s compute and sensor stack is identical to that used in Space-ng’s Sol3 Flight units, ensuring a smooth transition through design and review stages. Chief Engineer Steve Bailey highlights, “The main difference between the HDK and our Flight Units is the use of commercial connectors and non-space-grade parts.” Utilizing the HDK and SDK, teams can explore the Sol3 architecture, accelerating system integration and testing processes.
A Paradigm Shift in Flight Software Development
With the Sol3 system, Space-ng is advancing onboard computing and sensor capabilities beyond what current spacecraft offer. The open-source Sol3 SDK enables users to leverage modern software and computing architectures, which are fundamental in maximizing the capabilities of their systems. CEO and Co-founder Ethan Rublee emphasizes the importance of accessible resources: “By making our SDK available for free for academic and non-commercial uses, we allow users to innovate alongside us with the same tools that drive our development.”
Available Now for Order
Now, reservations for the Sol3 HDK Base Unit and Camera Modules can be placed online, with initial shipments expected in September 2025. Interested users can access the SDK, emulation environment, and comprehensive documentation through an Evaluation License. For more details on the Sol3 HDK or to order, visit space-ng.com/hdk.
Sol3 Capabilities
The Sol3 Base Unit operates as the core computer and camera controller, capable of powering camera modules and facilitating network communications with the spacecraft. Equipped with a high-performance Qualcomm-based SoC, the Base Unit weighs less than 750 grams and incorporates multiple IMUs, a closed-loop heater control system, and extensive I/O options for flexible integration.
Each Sol3 Camera Module boasts impressive specifications, including a 12.3 Mpixel resolution and configurable focal lengths and shutter types, all in a compact form weighing as little as 150 grams. The combined innovation aims to meet the growing demand for sophisticated space systems.
Space-ng continues to accept orders for Sol3 hardware, with the next generation of flight hardware becoming available in Q3 of 2025. As a software-defined system with an open architecture, a multitude of flight software modules can either be licensed or customized by users to fit their specific mission needs. Each Sol3 component is designed to support its lifecycle, encompassing real-time simulation, electrical ground support, command telemetry, and Over the Air (OTA) updates.
“Optical navigation holds critical importance for precision maneuvers when GPS is unavailable,” says Will Coogan, Chief Engineer at Firefly Aerospace. “Opting for Space-ng during the Blue Ghost mission was based on their software’s ability to navigate and land precisely on the lunar surface, avoiding hazardous terrain.” This reinforces the value of Space-ng’s technology and expertise in enhancing future missions.
Discover More About Space-ng
Space-ng is at the forefront of developing revolutionary computer vision technology for a wide range of space applications, including civil, commercial, and defense sectors. Their mission is to empower engineers with the tools needed to rapidly prototype, test, and fly advanced autonomous systems. With a strong foundation in perception, navigation, and flight software, Space-ng equips users with integration-ready platforms that propel ideas from experimental stages to actual space missions. Explore further details about their offerings at www.space-ng.com, providing everything you need to customize Sol3 for your specific mission requirements.
Media Contact: Stephen Bailey, 720-840-6895, [email protected]
SOURCE Space-ng Inc.