Unlocking the Future of Space Exploration: Space-ng’s Sol3 HDK and SDK
Introduction to Space-ng’s Innovations
Space-ng is making waves in the aerospace industry with its introduction of a low-cost, rugged, air-cooled Hardware Development Kit (HDK) for its groundbreaking Sol3 Vision System. Accompanying this hardware is a Software Development Kit (SDK) that is freely available for download, aimed at evaluation, non-commercial use, and academic research. This innovative open architecture approach is designed to empower universities, startups, and established aerospace companies to harness the capabilities of computer vision for a myriad of space applications right in their own laboratories.
Where to Discover the Technology
For those interested in witnessing the capabilities of the Sol3 hardware and software ecosystem first-hand, Space-ng will be showcasing these innovations at the 39th Annual Small Satellite Conference in Salt Lake City, UT, from August 10-13, 2025. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Steve Bailey, Co-Founder and Chief Engineer of Space-ng, who is instrumental in the development of these cutting-edge technologies.
The Sol3 Vision System
At its core, the Sol3 Vision System is a powerful integrated solution that combines hardware and software designed specifically for space applications. The hardware comprises a low Size, Weight, and Power (SWAP) computer known as the Base Unit, capable of controlling up to 12 remote high-resolution Camera Modules.
The Sol3 system is not only user-programmable but also software-defined, with support for hardware-accelerated image processing. This means that engineers can develop and run sophisticated algorithms to handle complex tasks like optical navigation, hazard detection, and autonomous operations, all critical for modern space missions.
The Hardware Development Kit (HDK)
Space-ng’s HDK has been tailored for rapid prototyping, engineering development, and pre- and post-integration testing in various Earth-based environments. This kit mirrors the performance and functionality of the Sol3 flight hardware while using commercial parts to keep costs manageable. Priced at $5,000, the HDK Base Unit comes equipped with everything necessary to get started, including Camera Modules starting at $1,000.
Fast-Tracking Innovations: From Rapid Prototyping to Flight-Ready Systems
One of the standout features of the Sol3 HDK is its ability to mitigate long development cycles traditionally associated with flight hardware. The ability to utilize flight-like hardware in a lab setting expedites the integration of hardware and software, enabling engineers to complete workflows in a matter of hours rather than weeks or months.
With the HDK and SDK at hand, teams can seamlessly drop into flight-like test loops, run full development workflows on their laptops, and access a repository of well-documented software designed for mission success.
Elevating Development to a Higher Level: A Pathway to TRL9
The Sol3 HDK’s compute and sensor stack is directly inherited from Space-ng’s EDU and Flight units, ensuring that development proceeds smoothly through critical project milestones. Steve Bailey emphasizes the significance of using a platform that closely resembles flight-ready hardware, stating that it allows development teams to dive into system-level integration confidently.
By leveraging the HDK alongside the SDK, engineers can validate mission concepts and requirements more swiftly, streamlining their path from field experiments to operational capabilities.
Transformative Flight Software Development
The release of the Sol3 SDK marks a major evolution in onboard computing and sensor capabilities compared to current spacecraft frameworks. Users now have the opportunity to implement state-of-the-art navigation algorithms that require advanced computational resources. The software, utilized by Space-ng for lunar navigation and landing, is now available for partners and customers, promoting innovation in space flight software.
Ethan Rublee, CEO of Space-ng, emphasizes the importance of collaboration: "We want our partners to innovate alongside us and have access to the same tools that we use every day."
Order Your Sol3 HDK Today
Reservations for the Sol3 HDK Base Unit and Camera Modules are now open, with initial shipments anticipated for September 2025. Engineers can register for an Evaluation License to access the free SDK and all related documentation online. Dive into the details and place your order at Space-ng’s website.
Features of the Sol3 System
The Sol3 Base Unit serves as the control hub for camera power and communication with the spacecraft bus. Loaded with a Qualcomm-based SoC, the unit supports various peripheral devices and maintains a lightweight configuration of under 750 grams.
Equally impressive are the Camera Modules, available in both global and rolling shutter configurations, each boasting a resolution of 12.3 megapixels and an internal IMU. The design flexibility allows for tailored imaging solutions to meet the specific needs of different missions.
Space-ng: Pioneering the Future of Space Systems
Space-ng is not merely providing tools; it is reshaping the future of spacecraft systems through unparalleled expertise in visual navigation, flight software, and sensor technology. By promoting an open architecture model, the company enables engineers to develop customized solutions for their missions. Their technologies are already making significant contributions to lunar landings, autonomous rendezvous efforts, and greater spacecraft autonomy.
To explore further and customize the Sol3 system for your needs, visit Space-ng’s official website for comprehensive resources and support.
For inquiries, media representatives can contact Stephen Bailey at 720-840-6895 or via email at steve.bailey@space-ng.com.