In a groundbreaking development, Northrop Grumman Corporation has utilized its Highly Immersive Virtual Environment (HIVE) technology to enhance the design of Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Polar (NGP) satellites. These satellites are being constructed by Northrop Grumman for the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command.
The HIVE technology allows engineers to create, construct, maintain, and service satellites in a virtual reality setting before any physical hardware is produced or acquired. By utilizing real-time modeling, simulation, visualization, and human interaction, this digital technology significantly reduces technical costs and risks during the early stages of development.
Carol Erikson, the Vice President of Systems Engineering and Digital Transformation at Northrop Grumman, emphasized the advantages of digital engineering, stating, “With digital engineering, we can move through the design, testing, and manufacturing phases quickly and with agility, saving money and significantly reducing development timelines for large systems.”
As part of the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared System (Next-Gen OPIR), two NGP satellites will provide precise and timely sensor coverage over the northern hemisphere. This coverage will aid in deterring and defending against ballistic and hypersonic missiles. Northrop Grumman’s expertise in missile warning and defense, combined with their commitment to expediting NGP’s development, makes this project even more promising.
During a recent demonstration of the HIVE technology at their facility in Redondo Beach, California, Northrop Grumman engineers utilized virtual-reality goggles and motion-capture suits to simulate the integration and assembly of the satellites’ key components. This successful validation of the NGP design paves the way for further utilization of digital technology in the upcoming stages of satellite development.
In March 2022, Northrop Grumman announced a partnership with Ball Aerospace to design and develop the infrared payloads for the two NGP satellites. This collaboration marks the first phase of a $1.89 billion contract with the Space Systems Command, further solidifying Northrop Grumman’s position as a leader in satellite technology.
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