DARLA-02 is a follow-up mission to DARLA-01, and also serves as a prototype for essential mission architecture for Sardonyx; thus there are two major missions it will accomplish:
In serving as a prototype for Sardonyx, the 3U cube satellite will advance the capabilities of the Space Systems Research Lab by utilizing new hardware, including magnetorquers developed in-house for active attitude control, S-Band radio for improved communications, and deployable solar panels for increased power.
Improving upon the DARLA-01 mission, DARLA-02 will consist of several simulated satellites in a network to advance autonomous mission operations in space flight. The satellite will detect differences in the RF background of the Earth, and appropriately autonomously task itself based upon its internal status as well as its knowledge of the network.
Mission Management
Program Manager: Natalee Stepaniants
Chief Engineer: Adrian Acevedo