XSS-10, a 28 kilogram micro-satellite, was launched as a secondary payload aboard a Delta II launch vehicle carrying a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS). The XSS-10 mission, which was successfully launched in January 2003, was to demonstrate the complex interactions of line-ofsight guidance with basic inertial maneuvering.

The micro-satellite was attached to the Delta II second stage. Once the second stage separated from the GPS satellite, the XSS-10 micro-satellite waited for a sunlit Air Force Space Control Network pass before ejecting from the Delta II. Once ejected, the micro-satellite successfully
commenced an autonomous inspection sequence around the Delta II, and live video was transmitted to ground stations.

In recognition of the outstanding achievements associated with the architecture, analysis, design, and implementation of the XSS-10 micro-satellite, the AFRL XSS-10 team received AIAA’s “2003 Space Systems Award”.

Key Technologies
• Lightweight propulsion system 
• Guidance, navigation & control (GNC)
• Miniaturized communications system
• Primary lithium polymer batteries
• Integrated camera and star sensor

Octant Technologies was responsible for the GNC flight software development and integration.
Additionally, Octant was responsible for the ground support software and the mission simulator for this experimental satellite. The XSS-10 Program Manager expressed his appreciation to Octant with the following: