- Redwire Corporation (RDW, Financial) successfully completes the first deployment test of its Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSA) for the lunar Gateway project.
- The Gateway's Power and Propulsion Element (PPE), equipped with the ROSA, will generate an unprecedented 60kW of power.
- Redwire aims to deliver the ROSA wings to Maxar, the prime contractor for PPE, by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Redwire Corporation (RDW), a leader in aerospace and defense technology solutions, has successfully completed the initial deployment test for its Roll-Out Solar Arrays (ROSA) intended for the lunar Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element (PPE). This achievement marks a significant milestone in advancing solar electric propulsion technology necessary for future deep space exploration missions, including those to the Moon and Mars.
The deployed ROSAs, representing the peak of solar array technology, will provide the Gateway with an unprecedented 60kW of power. This enhanced capability is crucial for supporting sustained exploration and research activities in deep space. In addition to powering ambitious missions, the technology will contribute to resource extraction and utilization while enhancing astronaut safety and providing peaceful space domain awareness.
Maxar Technologies, the prime contractor for the PPE, has contracted Redwire to develop two ROSA wings. Further testing of these components will continue in the coming months, with Redwire preparing for a significant delivery of the ROSA wings to Maxar by the fourth quarter of 2025.
The unveiling of these powerful ROSAs was witnessed by leaders from key international space agencies and industry partners, including Northrop Grumman, the European Space Agency, and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, among others. These stakeholders expressed strong support for the Gateway's role in securing international collaboration in space exploration.
The Gateway initiative is backed by a global coalition funding over 60% of its development costs, providing significant savings to U.S. taxpayers. By building expertise in operating large spacecraft, the Gateway mission will ensure future Mars missions are safe and efficient, maintaining international partnerships and leadership in space exploration, as emphasized by Mike Gold, Redwire's President of Civil and International Space.
