QAZAQ GREEN.  Dcubed has unveiled the ARAQYS-D3 mission, a demonstration featuring a 2 kW solar array manufactured directly in orbit. The spacecraft is being developed with Astro Digital and is manifested on a SpaceX Rideshare mission scheduled for Q1 2027 under an arrangement with Maverick Space Systems.

On 18 November 2025, Dcubed GmbH (Bremen), a company specializing in release actuators, deployable structures, and in-space manufacturing (ISM), announced its entry into space-based energy systems with the launch of ARAQYS. The platform is positioned as an affordable, scalable solution for powering next-generation orbital infrastructure.

Following the reduced launch costs offered by SpaceX, Rocket Lab, and others, demand for large-scale in-orbit power has surged—driven by data centers, high-delta-v transportation, direct-to-device communications, and defense constellations. ARAQYS offers a full suite of power systems, from deployable solar arrays to proprietary ISM-built subsystems and, eventually, orbital power plants capable of beaming energy where needed.

CEO Thomas Sinn said the company aims to lead orbital power generation, noting that his work on NASA’s NIAC study more than 15 years ago laid the foundation for this trajectory.

ARAQYS-D3 Mission: Demonstrating Multi-Kilowatt In-Orbit Power
Scheduled for launch in Q1 2027 aboard a SpaceX Rideshare, ARAQYS-D3 will showcase a 2 kW solar array manufactured in space, with applications for power beaming, directed-energy systems, and high-delta-v electric propulsion.

Astro Digital will build the satellite in California, near Dcubed USA’s facilities, reflecting close transatlantic cooperation. Maverick Space Systems will broker the launch and manage integration.

Executives from Astro Digital and Maverick Space highlighted that the mission represents a step toward small satellites capable of producing and transmitting substantial energy in orbit.

Manufacturing of the spacecraft and ISM array will take place at Dcubed’s facilities in Munich and Colorado, supporting future megawatt-scale production.