Vehicles

MKII Aerospace's cutting-edge aerospace vehicles, including innovative rocket systems, autonomous drones, and advanced suborbital platforms. Discover the engineering behind reusable, high-performance designs for research, exploration, and commercial applications.

ORCA – Orbital Research and Communications Array

Meet ORCA

The Orbital Research and Communications Array (ORCA) redefines CubeSat capabilities. Engineered for advanced orbital research and reliable data transmission, ORCA offers a compact, modular platform for innovation in space. Explore how ORCA can elevate your mission.

Request More Information

ORCA – Orbital Research and Communications Array

Open-Source Origins

ORCA’s journey began with an open-source design crafted by a talented developer in Hungary on GrabCAD. This collaborative foundation allowed MKII Aerospace to innovate upon a proven chassis, creating a robust and adaptable platform for orbital research and communication. ORCA embodies the spirit of global ingenuity and open innovation.

GrabCAD Page

ORCA – Orbital Research and Communications Array

Modularity at Its Core

ORCA’s stackable modular design allows seamless customization and expansion. Built to stack effortlessly into a 2U satellite, ORCA adapts to a wide range of mission needs, providing unparalleled flexibility and scalability for advanced orbital applications.

Request More Information

AD1 - Advanced Demonstrator One

  • Fast Production

    The AD1 rocket is built using fast, modular production methods, with each section 3D printed from durable PLA or PETG materials. This approach allows for rapid manufacturing and easy assembly, minimizing downtime between builds. There are currently 5 AD1 airframes in flight rotations.

  • Easy Use

    The AD1 platform is engineered for seamless integration, allowing us to rapidly configure payloads and systems for a variety of missions. Its modularity and streamlined ground support processes enable faster turnaround times, ensuring more frequent launches.

  • Rapid Reflight

    The AD1 rocket is designed for rapid reusability, capable of being prepared for its next launch within just 8 minutes of recovery. Its modular construction and streamlined ground processes allow for quick inspection, fueling, and redeployment. This efficiency makes the AD1 an ideal platform for rapid iterative testing and frequent flight operations.
Request More Information

AD4 - Advanced Demonstrator Four

  • Overview

    The AD4 is still in development, with the first pathfinder airframe built and stacked. This foundational step marks significant progress toward the rocket's goal of achieving reliable suborbital flight. Designed for rapid reusability and easy integration of payloads.

  • Pathfinding

    The first pathfinder airframe for the AD4 has been constructed and stacked, serving as a critical tool for validating assembly processes and testing subsystems. These efforts will ensure a smooth transition to fully functional flight units.

  • Future Goals

    As development continues, the AD4 is preparing for its first suborbital flights, projected for late 2024 or early 2025. These flights will focus on demonstrating the rocket's full capabilities, including high-altitude data collection and safe recovery for rapid reusability.
Request More Information
DARPA Submissions & Proposals