Hydra
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A high-performance, modular star tracker
Available with multiple fields of view to match different mission profiles and spacecraft architectures. Hydra offers scalable options: from Hydra Access, optimized for price and performance, to Hydra Custom, tailored to specific customer requirements.
An autonomous tracking system
With its multi-head architecture, Hydra star tracker offers enhanced robustness, precision, and ease of use through autonomous operation.
Flight-proven since 2012
More than 245 Hydra units launched, and over ten million hours in operation.
Software
The software can be implemented either in the Hydra electronic unit (EU) or on the satellite’s onboard computer (OBC). The software library is available for various OBCs.
Electronic unit
Two versions: Hydra Baseline and Hydra TC (‘Two Channels’, featuring a fully redundant electronic unit). Centralized processing version also available.
Optical head and baffle
Fast acquisition and tracking precision of a few arcseconds with a CMOS detector; 26° sun exclusion angle; available with or without a thermoelectric cooler.
Main features
Our products
Hydra - Access
- Most affordable version of the Hydra range
- Batch manufacturing & off-the-shelf - 8-week delivery time
- Standard test plan includes vibration testing, thermal vacuum testing, and calibration
- No electronic unit, centralized processing by the software embedded in the OBC
- Up to 3 Hydra optical heads
Hydra - Baseline
- Best-in-class, highly modular star tracker
- Centralized or stand-alone version
- Three electronic unit versions available: LEO, GEO (with enhanced radiation shielding), and TC "Two Channels" (with hot or cold electronic redundancy in a single unit)
- One or two electronic units for redundancy
- From 1 to 4 optical heads / from 1 to 2 electronic units
Hydra - Custom
- Custom development, carried out for the JUICE & EUROPA CLIPPER missions, for example
- Possibility of improving robustness with additional shielding and hardware or software adaptations
- Low-power version available with Hydra-M (Minimum Power)
- Possibility of additional studies and specific support throughout the mission's lifespan
Options
Testing facilities and support
- Hydra is tested in Englewood, Colorado, through advanced testing facilities for high-performance star trackers
- Training with our experts to become knowledgeable on Sodern star tracker and ground support equipment, on site or remotely
- Mission-specific radiation and performance assessments
- Technical support for software integration
- Engineering model
- Star tracker numerical performance model
- Static or dynamic optical ground support equipment
- Electrical ground support equipment for H/W in the loop testing
Management and reviews
Each project is supported by dedicated project management and manufacturing teams. We provide multiple levels of project oversight and review, tailored to the agreed statement of work:
- Standard or customised management are available
Options available
In addition to the broad choice of configurations available in the HYDRA line-up:
- EEE parts level 1 or level 2
- With or without Thermo-Electric Cooler
- Alignment cube orientations
- Software options are available to enhance performances, please contact us for more informations
Other Ranges
Auriga™
Horus
