In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD)
The In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) Programme offers you a fast-track, low-cost opportunity to test your service or technology on a CubeSat mission launched from the International Space Station (ISS).
IOD will help you accelerate to ‘proof of concept’ stage by providing an affordable in-orbit testbed and a range of operational and business support services to exploit the commercial potential of the mission.
Our Missions
Open for applications
IOD-3
IOD-3 is open for applications! We are excited to announce the extension of this mission to include an upgrade from a 3U to a 6U platform, and opportunity to work with us on your mission requirements! Click the button below for more information and get in touch with us to discuss your application.
Read MoreIOD-4
IOD-4 is open for applications! This mission offers a 3U CubeSat platform and launch opportunity for an organisation demonstrating a new service capability. Click the button below for more information and get in touch with us to discuss your application.
Read MoreMissions in progress
IOD-GEMS
IOD-GEMS is currently at the build stage, and is due to launch in 2019. This mission is being carried out with Orbital Micro Systems who have relocated from Canada due to the capabilities the UK has to offer. The service demonstrated by this satellite will look to improve weather observing and forecasting.
Read MoreIOD-TARS
IOD-TARS is in the early build stage in partnership with Kepler Communications as a final prototype to their GEN1 constellation for IoT services. The satellite is due to be launched in summer 2019, following the successful launches of their first two demonstrators, KIPP and CASE.
Read MoreApplications under review
IOD-2
IOD-2 is now closed for applications and is in the process of being awarded. Keep an eye out for an announcement coming soon!
IOD-6
IOD-6 is now closed for applications and is in the process of being awarded. Keep an eye out for an announcement coming soon!
The Programme
How could you benefit?
The Offer
For each mission we offer:
- A CubeSat platform, including integration and testing
- A launch opportunity
- Business and operational support
Who Can Apply
The IOD Programme is open to any organisation or consortium who can clearly demonstrate the commercial potential of a service and a route to market. We are happy to provide support with applications to ensure you are as ready as possible for the process before applying, so if you are unsure on any areas please get in touch with
Our Support
We can help you with many areas of preparing for and delivering the mission, including:
- Building a business case and defining the mission
- Finding a technology or service partner
- Delivering mission operations
- Access to data processing facilities to test service prototypes
- Developing commercial potential of the service or technology
Applications
If you would like to apply for one of the missions, please select the one you wish to apply for above and ensure you have read any details or supporting documents. Applications can be submitted by email to IOD@sa.catapult.org.uk, and will be reviewed by the deadline given on the mission page.
The IOD programme is run by the Satellite Applications Catapult as a collaborative research initiative.
Each successful applicant will need to contribute according to the scope and scale of the mission. Support is available to help identify potential sources of funding.
// Get in touch
Please get in touch with us to discuss your application at any point, or to clarify any questions you have.
