SLATS

SPRINT A (EXCEED) [JAXA]

SLATS (Super Low Altitude Test Satellite) is an engineering test satellite currently under development in JAXA in an attempt to develop techniques to operate an satellite in extremely low earth orbits. In the presence of aerodynamic forces acting on the satellite, the altitude and attitude of the satellite are maintained by ion engines so that the aerodynamic drag can be canceled.

The satellite will be launched piggy-back on an other mission and will descend to its operational height of about 220 km by its own engine.