ROKETSAN - Micro Satellite Launch System (MSLS)

ROKETSAN – Micro Satellite Launch System (MUFS) is a national space launch system development project coordinated by the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) with the aim of enabling Türkiye to achieve independent access to space. The project is led by ROKETSAN and consists of the Micro Satellite Launch Vehicle (MUFA), a domestic launch center, and measurement and tracking systems. MUFS aims to enable Türkiye to launch small satellites into low Earth orbit using national capabilities.

Historical Background

In 2012, Türkiye took its first steps toward independent access to space. In 2015, the Space Systems and Advanced Technologies Research Center was established within ROKETSAN, and in 2017, Türkiye achieved independent access to space for the first time using a scientific sounding rocket developed in just two years. The successes achieved during flight tests in 2018 enabled the acquisition of numerous critical space capabilities, including stage separation, attitude control outside the atmosphere, and propulsion technologies.

On 29 October 2018, on the occasion of the 95th anniversary of the Republic, the Micro Satellite Launch System Development Project was officially assigned to ROKETSAN. This milestone initiated the process of establishing a systematic and integrated space launch infrastructure.

System Components

1 – Micro Satellite Launch Vehicle (MUFA)

MUFA is designed to carry a minimum payload of 100 kilograms to low Earth orbit. As of 2026, the target is to achieve launch capability to a 400-kilometer circular orbit. The first stage motors of MUFA are solid-fueled and guided using thrust vector control (TVC) technology. Development plans also include liquid-fueled motor configurations and variants supported by auxiliary motors.

2 – Launch Center

As part of the project, an integrated launch site will be established to enable MUFA launches from within Türkiye. The center is planned to include pre-launch preparation areas, a launch pad, ground control stations, and command and operations units.

3 – Measurement and Tracking Systems

Domestic measurement and tracking infrastructure is being developed to monitor the rocket’s position, attitude, and thrust profiles during flight. These systems are also critical for flight safety and mission validation.

Technical Specifications

^{Micro Satellite Launch Vehicle (MUFA):}

• Dimensions: Approximately 19 meters in length and 1.35 meters in diameter.
• Liftoff Mass: Approximately 32 tons.
• Launch Capacity: Ability to place a minimum 100-kilogram microsatellite into a 400-kilometer circular orbit.
• Stage Configuration:
• • First Stage: Solid-fueled rocket motor.
  • Second Stage: Solid-fueled rocket motor.
  • Third Stage: Liquid-fueled rocket motor.
• Maximum Velocity: 7.7 kilometers per second.
• Launch Infrastructure: Includes a launch pad, fueling facility, mobile integration tower, launch control center, mission control center, flight termination ground station, data collection and analysis center, tracking radar, and fixed telemetry antenna.

^{Technological Components}

• Thrust Vector Control (TVC): Enables steering capability for both solid and liquid-fueled rocket motors.
• Electromechanically Actuated Aerodynamic Hybrid Control: Enhances guidance and stability during flight.
• Multiple Ignition Capability: Allows for multiple ignitions of liquid-fueled motors in space.
• Precise Attitude Control: Ensures accurate spacecraft orientation in the space environment.
• National Sensors and Navigation Systems: Utilizes indigenous sensors and global positioning system receivers for inertial high-precision navigation.
• Payload Separation Technology: Enables timely and accurate separation of the payload in space.
• Structural and Chemical Materials: Employs various materials produced using advanced processing techniques.

Development Timeline

On 29 October 2020, the flight tests of four sounding rockets developed under the project were successfully completed. On the same day, the SR 0.1 flight test validated critical subsystem technologies of MUFA. The large-scale sounding rocket planned for 2023 is designed as a technology demonstration platform capable of carrying at least 100 kilograms of payload to an altitude of 300 kilometers.

In the post-2026 period, development of MUFA variants capable of reaching higher altitudes and carrying heavier payloads is targeted.