{
  "id": "blackwing-sparrow",
  "title": "Sparrow",
  "maker": "Blackwing Space",
  "maker_type": "Commercial",
  "kind": "platform",
  "category": "platforms",
  "page": "https://spacemushroom.com/space-products/blackwing-sparrow/",
  "website": "https://blackwingspace.com",
  "summary": "1U / 1.5U XL nanosatellite platform with a documented payload interface (developer page, interface guide, STEP/DXF templates, Samtec board connectors).",
  "application": "A ready-made 1U to 1.5U XL nanosatellite platform for teams that want to fly a payload without building the satellite around it. The payload plugs into the platform through a single connector with documented power rails, so a team can design and test its own module against the published interface. Useful for universities, startups and research groups proving new hardware in orbit.",
  "story": {
    "headline": "Sparrow is a ready-made small satellite from Blackwing Space, built so a customer can plug in their own payload.",
    "intro": [
      "Sparrow is a small satellite that Blackwing Space sells online, off the shelf, at published prices. A team builds one payload module and plugs it into the platform, which supplies the power and the flight computer. There are two sizes. The 1U is 113.5 by 100 by 100 millimetres, and the 1U XL is 170 millimetres long.",
      "The frame is 6061 aluminium with a hard anodised finish. The flight computer, called Rook, is a four-layer circuit board that grew out of an open-source CubeSat computer named PyCubed. Blackwing publishes the payload connection in detail, with a 3D model for checking fit before anything is built."
    ],
    "built": [
      {
        "title": "Frame and side panels",
        "text": "Each size has a 6061 aluminium frame, supplied with fasteners and assembly instructions. Optional side panels arrive blank, ready for the customer to modify. The frame has built-in mounting and electrical connections for deployment switches, solar arrays, a de-orbiting device, antennas and radiators.",
        "parts": [
          "Sparrow 1U Chassis",
          "Sparrow 1U XL Chassis",
          "Sparrow 1U Chassis optional side panels",
          "Sparrow 1U XL Chassis optional side panels",
          "Chassis interface provisions (1U and 1U XL)"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Payload module",
        "text": "The standard payload module is a two-piece housing machined from 6061 aluminium, a cover and an enclosure, both anodised black. It includes an interface board called Dodo and a 40-pin Samtec connector. Blackwing's catalogue has a module built around a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5, which relies on the chassis to shed its heat.",
        "parts": [
          "Payload Module Top (cover)",
          "Payload Module Bottom (enclosure)",
          "Standard DODO interface PCB",
          "Avionic interface connector",
          "Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 payload module (Broadcom BCM2712)"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Flight computer",
        "text": "Rook is the platform's flight computer, combining data handling and power control on one four-layer board of FR-4, a glass-epoxy laminate. Its processor runs CircuitPython or embedded C. A persistent memory chip called MRAM keeps logs and safe-mode flags, and two watchdogs, one inside the processor and one outside it, handle recovery.",
        "parts": [
          "Rook onboard computer (one per platform)",
          "Rook printed circuit board",
          "Flight processor, Microchip ATSAMD51J20A",
          "Persistent memory, Everspin MR25H40 MRAM",
          "Watchdogs (SAMD51 internal and MAX706 external)"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Power and battery",
        "text": "A charge controller takes power from the solar panels or a USB-C cable and charges the battery. Six ideal-diode controllers isolate the solar inputs, so a shaded panel cannot feed current backwards. The battery is a Puffin Pack of lithium-ion 18650 cells.",
        "parts": [
          "Charge controller, TI BQ25798 buck-boost",
          "Solar-input ideal-diode controllers, LTC4412 (x6)",
          "eFuse, TPS259470 (with fuses, TVS, zener clamps, battery protection FETs)",
          "Regulated rails (3.3 V and two 5 V)",
          "Puffin battery pack (Puffin Pack)"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Radios and add-ons",
        "text": "There are two radios: Warbler for UHF and Hummingbird for LoRa. Solar panels can be fixed to the body or carried on one or two deployable wings. The larger 1U XL can also take an Iridium backup link, three-axis pointing control and a passive drag sail for the FCC's five-year lifetime rule.",
        "parts": [
          "Warbler UHF radio",
          "Hummingbird LoRa radio",
          "Deployable solar panel wings (1 or 2 panels)",
          "Iridium transceiver (offered on Sparrow 1U XL, not on the 1U)",
          "Passive drag sail (Sparrow 1U XL and larger)"
        ]
      }
    ],
    "materials": [
      {
        "name": "Aluminium alloy 6061",
        "mid": "aluminium-6061",
        "where": "The frame in both sizes, and the cover and enclosure of the standard payload module."
      },
      {
        "name": "FR-4",
        "mid": "fr-4",
        "where": "The four-layer Rook circuit board."
      },
      {
        "name": "Lithium-ion cells",
        "mid": "lithium-ion-cell",
        "where": "The 18650 cells in the Puffin Pack battery."
      },
      {
        "name": "PEEK",
        "mid": "peek",
        "where": "Blackwing's draft specification names PEEK, a plastic, as an alternative to aluminium for the frame."
      },
      {
        "name": "Carbon composite",
        "mid": "carbon-fibre",
        "where": "The same draft names a carbon composite shell in place of the hard anodised finish."
      },
      {
        "name": "Gallium arsenide",
        "mid": "gallium-arsenide",
        "where": "The draft specification describes triple-junction gallium arsenide cells for fixed or deployable solar arrays."
      }
    ],
    "connections": "Blackwing says Sparrow complies with the CubeSat Design Specification and the PC/104 board format. It names four compatible dispensers, from SEOPS, Maverick Space Systems, Exolaunch and Spacemind. Sparrow's first flight was Baby Bird, the company's first orbital mission. It launched from Vandenberg on SpaceX's Transporter-18 rideshare, a shared launch, with a Manifest Space optical beacon, a Celestis memorial payload and Melagen Labs' radiation-shielding material on board.",
    "unknown": "Blackwing doesn't say what the side panels or fasteners are made of, or which kind of anodising the frame gets. It hasn't named the makers of the solar cells or the battery cells. Its own pages disagree on the payload volume and on how much current each power line can carry.",
    "facts": [
      {
        "label": "Form factor",
        "value": "1U / 1.5U XL"
      },
      {
        "label": "Platform mass (1U, 1U XL)",
        "value": "2 kg and 3 kg"
      },
      {
        "label": "Orbit-average power (1U, 1U XL)",
        "value": "0 to 5 W and 1 to 10 W"
      },
      {
        "label": "Battery capacity",
        "value": "75 W-h each (one Puffin Pack)"
      },
      {
        "label": "1U XL size",
        "value": "170 x 100 x 100 mm"
      }
    ]
  },
  "specifications": [
    {
      "label": "Form factor",
      "value": "1U / 1.5U XL",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com",
      "quote": "Sparrow 1U / 1.5U XL"
    },
    {
      "label": "Payload mass",
      "value": "0.5 kg (1U) / 1 kg (1U XL)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com",
      "quote": "Payload: 0.5 kg / 1 kg"
    },
    {
      "label": "Payload volume",
      "value": "0.3U (developer page and interface section also say 0.5U)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "Available Payload Volume 0.3U"
    },
    {
      "label": "Payload volume (developer page interface section)",
      "value": "0.5U",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "0.5U payload volume with defined mounting pattern"
    },
    {
      "label": "Orbit average power",
      "value": "1-10 W, depending on solar panel configuration",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "1-10W OAP, depending on solar panel configuration"
    },
    {
      "label": "Payload logic level",
      "value": "3.3 V",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "3.3 V Payload Logic"
    },
    {
      "label": "VBATT rail range (developer page headline)",
      "value": "5-8.4 V",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "5–8.4 V VBATT Rail"
    },
    {
      "label": "VBATT rail (interface guide)",
      "value": "7.0-8.4 V, nominally 7.2-7.4 V, unregulated",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "7.0-8.4V, nominally 7.2-7.4V"
    },
    {
      "label": "Power rails (developer page)",
      "value": "3V3 at 3 A, 5V at 2 A, VBATT unregulated at 2 A",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "3V3 regulated at 3A, 5V regulated at 2A, and VBATT unregulated at 2A"
    },
    {
      "label": "Power rails (interface guide v0.3)",
      "value": "3V3 1 A, 5V 1 A, VBATT 5 A (conflicts with developer page)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "VBATT 7.0-8.4V, nominally 7.2-7.4V Unregulated 5A"
    },
    {
      "label": "I2C",
      "value": "up to 400 kHz Fast Mode, 3.3 V",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "I2C up to 400 kHz Fast Mode"
    },
    {
      "label": "Digital interfaces",
      "value": "I2C, SPI (dedicated chip select), UART (optional flow control), GPIO; all 3.3 V",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "SPI with dedicated chip select, and UART with optional flow control"
    },
    {
      "label": "Payload connector",
      "value": "Samtec SFM-120-01-L-D (payload) / TFM-120-31-L-D (platform), 40 pin, 1.27 mm pitch",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "Payload Connector Samtec SFM-120-01-L-D Platform Connector Samtec TFM-120-31-L-D Total Pins 40 Pitch 1.27 mm"
    },
    {
      "label": "Compatible deployers",
      "value": "SEOPS Equalizer Flex, Maverick Space NLAS, Exolaunch EXOpod Nova, SPACEMIND SMPOD12",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com",
      "quote": "SEOPS Equalizer Flex · Maverick Space NLAS · Exolaunch EXOpod Nova · SPACEMIND SMPOD12"
    },
    {
      "label": "Sparrow 1U structure mass",
      "value": "186 g (+210 g with blank side panels)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
      "quote": "186g structure (+210g with blank side panels)"
    },
    {
      "label": "Sparrow 1U XL structure mass",
      "value": "230 g (+290 g with blank side panels)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
      "quote": "230g structure (+290g with blank side panels)"
    },
    {
      "label": "Sparrow 1U dimensions (chassis page)",
      "value": "113.5 x 100 x 100 mm (page text says Standard 6U, a typo)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
      "quote": "Standard 6U overall dimensions (113.5 / 100 / 100 mm)"
    },
    {
      "label": "Sparrow 1U XL dimensions (chassis page)",
      "value": "170 x 100 x 100 mm",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
      "quote": "Standard 1.5U overall dimensions (170 / 100 / 100 mm)"
    },
    {
      "label": "Sparrow 1U payload limit (chassis page)",
      "value": "600 g",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
      "quote": "Payloads up to 600g"
    },
    {
      "label": "Sparrow 1U XL payload limit (chassis page)",
      "value": "950 g",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
      "quote": "Payloads up to 950g"
    },
    {
      "label": "Platform mass (1U, 1U XL)",
      "value": "2 kg and 3 kg",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
      "quote": "Platform Mass | 2 kg | 3 kg | 6 kg | 12 kg"
    },
    {
      "label": "Orbit-average power (1U, 1U XL)",
      "value": "0 to 5 W and 1 to 10 W",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
      "quote": "On-Orbit Average Power (OAP) | 0–5 W | 1–10 W | 3–30 W | 10–60 W"
    },
    {
      "label": "Battery capacity (1U, 1U XL)",
      "value": "75 W-h each (one Puffin Pack)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
      "quote": "Battery Capacity | 75 W-h (1x Puffin Pack) | 75 W-h (1x Puffin Pack)"
    },
    {
      "label": "Draft structure mass range (1U to 6U)",
      "value": "0.15 kg (1U) to 0.80 kg (6U) including fasteners, draft",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
      "quote": "Mass: 0.15 kg (1U) – 0.80 kg (6U) including fasteners"
    },
    {
      "label": "First flight",
      "value": "Baby Bird on Transporter-18, announced October 2026",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-",
      "quote": "inaugural orbital mission and the first flight of its Sparrow nanosatellite platform"
    },
    {
      "label": "Rook board size",
      "value": "approximately 90.2 x 95.9 mm",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
      "quote": "Approximately 90.2 x 95.9 mm"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: rail minimum width",
      "value": "8.5 mm, measured from the rail edge to the first protrusion",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "Rails shall have a minimum width of 8.5mm measured from the edge of the rail to the first protrusion on each face."
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: rail surface roughness",
      "value": "less than 1.6 micrometres (a 'should')",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "Rails should have a surface roughness less than 1.6 µm."
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: rail edge radius",
      "value": "at least 1 mm (a 'should')",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "The edges of the rails should be rounded to a radius of at least 1 mm."
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: rail end contact area",
      "value": "6.5 mm x 6.5 mm minimum on the +/- Z face",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "The ends of the rails on the +/- Z face shall have a minimum surface area of 6.5 mm x 6.5 mm contact area"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: protrusion limit",
      "value": "6.5 mm normal to the surface from the plane of the rail",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "shall protrude farther than 6.5 mm normal to the surface from the plane of the rail"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: rail contact with dispenser",
      "value": "at least 75% of the rail",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "At least 75% of the rail should be in contact with the dispenser rails."
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: structure material",
      "value": "aluminium alloy; 7075, 6061, 6082, 5005 and/or 5052 typical",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "Typically, Aluminum 7075, 6061, 6082, 5005, and/or 5052 are used for both the main CubeSat structure and the rails."
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: rail surface finish",
      "value": "hard anodized wherever it touches the dispenser rails",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "shall be hard anodized to prevent any cold welding within the dispenser"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: maximum mass per size",
      "value": "1U 2.00 kg, 1.5U 3.00 kg, 2U 4.00 kg, 3U 6.00 kg, 6U 12.00 kg, 12U 24.00 kg",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "1U 2.00 1.5U 3.00 2U 4.00 3U 6.00 6U 12.00 12U 24.00"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: separation spring guideline",
      "value": "max force below 6.7 N (1.5 lbf), stroke above 2.5 mm",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "select a separation spring with a max force less than 6.7 N (1.5 lbf) but with a stroke length greater than 2.5 mm"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: deployment switch",
      "value": "at least one, actuated while the CubeSat is in the dispenser",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "The CubeSat shall have, at a minimum, one deployment switch, which is actuated while integrated in the dispenser."
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: outgassing",
      "value": "TML at most 1.0 % and CVCM at most 0.1 %",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "CubeSats materials shall have a Total Mass Loss (TML) of less than or equal to 1.0 %"
    },
    {
      "label": "CDS Rev 14.1: remove-before-flight pin",
      "value": "required; protrudes no more than 6.5 mm from the rail surface when fully inserted",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cubesatdesignspecificationrev14_12022-02-09.pdf",
      "quote": "The RBF pin shall protrude no more than 6.5 mm from the CubeSat rail surface when it is fully inserted into the satellite."
    }
  ],
  "features": [
    {
      "text": "Payload module plugs into the platform avionics enclosure through a single Samtec board-to-board connector",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "plugs directly into the Sparrow platform avionics enclosure via a single Samtec board-to-board connector"
    },
    {
      "text": "Each power rail can be independently enabled or disabled by the platform",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "Each rail can be independently enabled or disabled by the Sparrow platform for sequencing, fault protection, and power cycling"
    },
    {
      "text": "STEP template to validate fit before fabrication",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "A STEP template for the Sparrow payload module is provided to validate fit, alignment, and clearances prior to fabrication"
    },
    {
      "text": "Standardised 0.3U mounting envelope with defined metric fastener locations",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
      "quote": "standardized 0.3U mounting envelope with defined metric fastener locations and alignment features"
    },
    {
      "text": "Developer resources: Payload Interface Guide, STEP template, GD&T drawings, DXF outline",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "GD&T Drawings"
    },
    {
      "text": "HDK (KiCad 8 adapter board) and SDK announced as coming soon",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/developer/sparrow",
      "quote": "A KiCad 8 reference design implementing the complete Sparrow payload electrical interface"
    },
    {
      "text": "Sold online as commercial off-the-shelf systems with transparent pricing",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com",
      "quote": "sold online as commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) systems with consistent, transparent, and affordable pricing"
    },
    {
      "text": "Railed CubeSats enable late manifesting on rideshare missions",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com",
      "quote": "Railed Cubesats enable true late-manifesting"
    }
  ],
  "parts": [
    {
      "assembly": "Chassis (frame)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Sparrow 1U Chassis",
          "material": "Aluminum 6061 T6 or T651",
          "form": "chassis (frame)",
          "finish": "Hard anodized (Anodized + Flight); anodize type/class not stated",
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "SKU SPARROW-1U-CHASSIS",
          "quote": "Aluminum 6061 T6 or T651 Hard anodized (Anodized + Flight)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
          "profile": "aluminium-6061",
          "mid": "aluminium-6061"
        },
        {
          "part": "Sparrow 1U Chassis optional side panels",
          "material": "not stated",
          "form": "panel",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Optional side panels ready to be modified to end user needs",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Sparrow 1U Chassis assembly fasteners",
          "material": "not stated",
          "form": "fastener",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Guided assembly instructions and fasteners provided",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Sparrow 1U XL Chassis",
          "material": "Aluminum 6061 T6 or T651",
          "form": "chassis (frame)",
          "finish": "Hard anodized (Anodized + Flight); anodize type/class not stated",
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "SKU SPARROW-1U-XL-CHASSI",
          "quote": "Aluminum 6061 T6 or T651 Hard anodized (Anodized + Flight)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
          "profile": "aluminium-6061",
          "mid": "aluminium-6061"
        },
        {
          "part": "Sparrow 1U XL Chassis optional side panels",
          "material": "not stated",
          "form": "panel",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Optional side panels ready to be modified to end user needs",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Sparrow 1U XL Chassis assembly fasteners",
          "material": "not stated",
          "form": "fastener",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Guided assembly instructions and fasteners provided",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Structure (all platforms table)",
          "material": "Al 6061-T6",
          "form": "structure",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Structure Material Al 6061-T6",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
          "profile": "aluminium-6061",
          "mid": "aluminium-6061"
        },
        {
          "part": "Chassis interface provisions (1U and 1U XL)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Includes interfaces for deployment switches, solar arrays, de-orbiting device, HF antennas, radiators and more",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Mounting and electrical interfaces built into the chassis for deployment switches, solar arrays, de-orbiting device, HF antennas and radiators"
        },
        {
          "part": "Tuna can antenna volume (1U and 1U XL)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Tuna can antenna ready",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Chassis is prepared for the CubeSat -Z face extra-volume antenna"
        },
        {
          "part": "Blank side panels (1U)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "186g structure (+210g with blank side panels)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Optional panels bolted to the chassis; sold blank to be modified by the user",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Mass added by panels (1U)",
              "value": "210 g",
              "quote": "186g structure (+210g with blank side panels)",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Blank side panels (1U XL)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "230g structure (+290g with blank side panels)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Optional panels bolted to the chassis; sold blank to be modified by the user",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Mass added by panels (1U XL)",
              "value": "290 g",
              "quote": "230g structure (+290g with blank side panels)",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/sparrow-1u-xl"
            }
          ]
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Payload module (Sparrow payload template)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Payload Module Top (cover)",
          "material": "AL 6061 T6",
          "form": "machined cover",
          "finish": "ANODIZE PER MIL-PRF-8625, TYPE II, CLASS 2, COLOR: BLACK; SEAL PER MIL-PRF-8625 WITH DI WATER ONLY; mask all threaded holes prior to anodize",
          "standard": "MIL-PRF-8625 Type II Class 2 (black)",
          "hardware_ref": "Drawing 'PAYLOAD MODULE TOP' (Payload_Module_Top_Drawing.pdf), 4x 3.40 thru holes",
          "quote": "MATERIAL: AL 6061 T6 | ANODIZE PER MIL-PRF-8625, TYPE II, CLASS 2, COLOR: BLACK | SEAL PER MIL-PRF-8625 WITH DI WATER ONLY",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.s3.amazonaws.com/website/developer/hdk_v1_3/Payload_Module_Top_Drawing.pdf",
          "profile": "aluminium-6061",
          "mid": "aluminium-6061"
        },
        {
          "part": "Payload Module Bottom (enclosure)",
          "material": "AL 6061 T6",
          "form": "machined enclosure",
          "finish": "ANODIZE PER MIL-PRF-8625, TYPE II, CLASS 2, COLOR: BLACK; SEAL PER MIL-PRF-8625 WITH DI WATER ONLY; mask all threaded holes prior to anodize",
          "standard": "MIL-PRF-8625 Type II Class 2 (black)",
          "hardware_ref": "Drawing 'PAYLOAD MODULE BOTTOM' (Payload_Module_Bot_Drawing.pdf), 12x M3x0.5-6H thru holes",
          "quote": "MATERIAL: AL 6061 T6 | ANODIZE PER MIL-PRF-8625, TYPE II, CLASS 2, COLOR: BLACK | SEAL PER MIL-PRF-8625 WITH DI WATER ONLY",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.s3.amazonaws.com/website/developer/hdk_v1_3/Payload_Module_Bot_Drawing.pdf",
          "profile": "aluminium-6061",
          "mid": "aluminium-6061"
        },
        {
          "part": "Payload module assembly (standard module, drawing title block)",
          "material": "AL 6061 T6",
          "form": "assembly",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Drawing ASSY_PAYLOAD_MODULE_DRAWING_rev2.PDF; STEP ASSY_PAYLOAD_MODULE_06012026.STEP",
          "quote": "MATERIAL: AL 6061 T6",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.s3.amazonaws.com/website/developer/hdk_v1_3/ASSY_PAYLOAD_MODULE_DRAWING_rev2.PDF",
          "profile": "aluminium-6061",
          "mid": "aluminium-6061"
        },
        {
          "part": "Countersunk screws, 4 off, M3x12",
          "material": "not stated",
          "form": "fastener",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "4X COUNTERSUNK M3X12 SCREWS",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.s3.amazonaws.com/website/developer/hdk_v1_3/ASSY_PAYLOAD_MODULE_DRAWING_rev2.PDF",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Standard DODO interface PCB",
          "material": "not stated",
          "form": "PCB",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Outline: Dodo_PCB_Outline_Zones.DXF",
          "quote": "STANDARD DODO INTERFACE PCB",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.s3.amazonaws.com/website/developer/hdk_v1_3/ASSY_PAYLOAD_MODULE_DRAWING_rev2.PDF",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Avionic interface connector",
          "material": "not stated (Samtec part; connector hardware reference only)",
          "form": "board-to-board connector",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Samtec SFM-120-01-L-D (40 pin, 1.27 mm pitch)",
          "quote": "SFM-120-01-L-D AVIONIC INTERFACE CONNECTOR",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.s3.amazonaws.com/website/developer/hdk_v1_3/ASSY_PAYLOAD_MODULE_DRAWING_rev2.PDF",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Payload-side connector",
          "material": "not stated (Samtec part; connector hardware reference only)",
          "form": "board-to-board connector",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Samtec SFM-120-01-L-D (payload) / TFM-120-31-L-D (platform), per interface guide",
          "quote": "Payload Connector Samtec SFM-120-01-L-D Platform Connector Samtec TFM-120-31-L-D",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/docs/sparrow-payload-interface",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Avionics (Rook board)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Rook onboard computer (one per platform)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Blackwing Space",
          "quote": "Rook is Blackwing Space’s integrated flight avionics board",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Flight computer, command and data handling and electrical power system on one four-layer board; the platform's OBC",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Fitted to the platform",
              "value": "1x Rook OBC (ARM Cortex-M4F at 120 MHz, 1 MB flash, 512 KB MRAM, up to 2 TB microSD)",
              "quote": "1x Rook OBC (ARM Cortex-M4F @ 120MHz, 1MB Flash, 512KB MRAM, up to 2TB microSD)",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing"
            },
            {
              "label": "PCB size",
              "value": "approximately 90.2 x 95.9 mm",
              "quote": "Approximately 90.2 x 95.9 mm",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
            },
            {
              "label": "Mounting",
              "value": "4 mm x 4 mm corner mounting holes, common with the Dodo payload board",
              "quote": "4 mm x 4 mm corner mounting holes, common with Dodo",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Rook printed circuit board",
          "material": "FR-4 (glass-epoxy laminate; grade not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Four-layer FR-4",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": "fr-4",
          "mid": "fr-4",
          "function": "Carries all Rook electronics",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Size",
              "value": "approximately 90.2 x 95.9 mm",
              "quote": "Approximately 90.2 x 95.9 mm",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Flight processor, Microchip ATSAMD51J20A",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Microchip",
          "quote": "Microchip ATSAMD51J20A, 32-bit Arm Cortex-M4F, up to 120 MHz",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "32-bit Arm Cortex-M4F running CircuitPython or embedded C",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Memory",
              "value": "1 MB internal flash, 256 KB SRAM",
              "quote": "1 MB internal flash, 256 KB SRAM",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Persistent memory, Everspin MR25H40 MRAM",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Everspin",
          "quote": "Everspin MR25H40 MRAM, 4 Mbit (512 KB)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Stores logs, event counters, calibration data and safe-mode flags"
        },
        {
          "part": "QSPI NOR flash, Winbond W25Q128",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Winbond",
          "quote": "Winbond W25Q128 NOR flash, 128 Mbit (16 MB)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Holds software, libraries, telemetry buffers and over-the-air images"
        },
        {
          "part": "microSD card interface",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Removable storage - microSD interface",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Removable bulk storage for mission or payload data",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Capacity quoted on pricing page",
              "value": "up to 2 TB microSD",
              "quote": "up to 2TB microSD",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Inertial sensor, BNO086",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "BNO086 nine-axis IMU with onboard sensor fusion",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Nine-axis IMU with onboard sensor fusion"
        },
        {
          "part": "Watchdogs (SAMD51 internal and MAX706 external)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "SAMD51 internal watchdog and MAX706 external watchdog",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Watchdog recovery of the flight computer"
        },
        {
          "part": "Bootloader ROOKBOOT",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "ROOKBOOT, in the protected 16 KB BOOTPROT region, with MRAM backup image",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Runs first after every reset from a protected flash region; MRAM holds a backup image"
        },
        {
          "part": "Flight software environment",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "CircuitPython 10 or embedded C",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "CircuitPython 10 or embedded C on the Rook board"
        },
        {
          "part": "GPIO expander, MCP23017",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "MCP23017 16-bit I2C GPIO expander - burn-wire relays, payload power switching, RBF sensing, charger interrupts",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "16-bit I2C expander for burn-wire relays, payload power switching, RBF sensing and charger interrupts"
        },
        {
          "part": "I2C hot-swap buffers, TCA4307 (x4)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Four TCA4307 I2C hot-swap and stuck-bus-recovery buffers",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Hot-swap and stuck-bus recovery on the I2C buses"
        },
        {
          "part": "Burn-wire drivers",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "High-current burn-wire drivers with hardware relay inhibit",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Release deployables; hardware relay inhibit"
        },
        {
          "part": "Radio interface connector (20-pin Samtec) and SMP RF connection",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Samtec",
          "quote": "20-pin Samtec connector - power, SPI, reset, programming, control; separate SMP RF connection",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Power, SPI, reset, programming and control to the radio, plus a separate RF cable connection"
        },
        {
          "part": "GNSS footprint, Orion B16-S L1/L5 (provision only)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Orion B16-S L1/L5 footprint provision and SMP antenna connection - NOT populated in the current BOM",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Footprint and SMP antenna connection for a GNSS receiver; not populated in the current bill of materials"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Electrical power (Rook board)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Charge controller, TI BQ25798 buck-boost",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Texas Instruments",
          "quote": "TI BQ25798 buck-boost charger",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Dual-input (solar and USB-C) battery charger, software-programmable up to 5 A",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Charge current",
              "value": "software-programmable, up to 5 A",
              "quote": "Software-programmable, up to 5 A",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Solar-input ideal-diode controllers, LTC4412 (x6)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Six LTC4412 ideal-diode PowerPath controllers",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Isolate the solar inputs from each other so shaded panels cannot backfeed"
        },
        {
          "part": "eFuse, TPS259470 (with fuses, TVS, zener clamps, battery protection FETs)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "TPS259470 eFuse, physical fuses, TVS protection, zener clamps, and battery protection FETs",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Layered electrical protection"
        },
        {
          "part": "Low-noise regulator, LT3045",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "LT3045-regulated RF/GNSS supply",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Supplies the RF and GNSS circuits"
        },
        {
          "part": "Radio power-amplifier supply (switched 11 V boost)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Switched 11 V boost supply",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Powers the radio power amplifier"
        },
        {
          "part": "Power monitor, ADM1176",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "ADM1176 voltage and current monitor",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Voltage and current monitoring"
        },
        {
          "part": "Regulated rails (3.3 V and two 5 V)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "3.3 V and two 5 V rails",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Rails offered to the platform and payload"
        },
        {
          "part": "Puffin battery pack (Puffin Pack)",
          "material": "Lithium-ion 18650 cells, two in series",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "75 W-h (1x Puffin Pack)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": "lithium-ion-cell",
          "function": "Rechargeable battery pack; platform carries one Puffin Pack (75 W-h)",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Battery board",
              "value": "18650 Li-ion, two cells in series, nominal 7.2 to 7.4 V, 5 A slow-blow fuse",
              "quote": "Puffin - 18650 Li-ion, two-cell series, nominal 7.2 to 7.4 V, 5 A slow-blow fuse",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
            }
          ]
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Radios (options)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Warbler UHF radio",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Warbler UHF radio - OpenLST-derived, on the dedicated 20-pin Rook radio interface",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "OpenLST-derived UHF radio on the Rook radio interface"
        },
        {
          "part": "Hummingbird LoRa radio",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Hummingbird LoRa radio - packet, telemetry, ground-station, and RF-link development. (Available Q3 2026)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "LoRa radio for packet, telemetry, ground-station and RF-link development; stated as available Q3 2026"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Optional modules (pricing page)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Deployable solar panel wings (1 or 2 panels)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Deployable Solar Panels (1 Panel)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Optional deployable arrays to raise orbit-average power; body-mounted panels are the alternative",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Choices",
              "value": "body mounted, deployable wings (1 panel), deployable wings (2 panel)",
              "quote": "Body Mounted Deployable Wings (1 Panel) Deployable Wings (2 Panel)",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/configure-0"
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          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Iridium transceiver (offered on Sparrow 1U XL, not on the 1U)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Iridium Transceiver — $5,000 $5,000 $5,000",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Global backup communications band",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Band and rate",
              "value": "1.6 GHz, 2.4 kbps (configurator)",
              "quote": "Iridium: 1.6 GHz / 2.4 Kbps",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/configure-0"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "3-axis coarse ADCS (Sparrow 1U XL and larger)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "ADCS (3-Axis Coarse)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Attitude control option, better than 10 degrees",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Pointing",
              "value": "3-axis, standard, < 10 deg",
              "quote": "3-Axis Control (Standard, < 10 deg)",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/configure-0"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Passive drag sail (Sparrow 1U XL and larger)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Passive Drag Sail (Deorbit)",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/pricing",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Deorbit device for the FCC 5-year lifetime rule",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Purpose",
              "value": "passive deorbit device for FCC 5-year lifetime rule compliance",
              "quote": "Optionally add a passive deorbit device for FCC 5-year lifetime rule compliance",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/configure-0"
            }
          ]
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Developer hardware (HDK, non-flight)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Rook 1.2 Lite avionics board",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Blackwing Space",
          "quote": "Rook 1.2 Lite - non-flight development configuration of the Rook 1.2 avionics platform",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/bw-hdk-02",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Non-flight development configuration of Rook 1.2 that omits selected flight-specific hardware"
        },
        {
          "part": "Dodo Lite payload development board",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Blackwing Space",
          "quote": "Dodo Lite - payload-side development board providing convenient breakout access to Sparrow power, data, GPIO, and test interfaces",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/bw-hdk-02",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Payload-side board with breakout access to Sparrow power, data, GPIO and test interfaces"
        },
        {
          "part": "40-pin interconnect",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "40-pin interconnect - connects the Rook and payload-side interfaces using the Sparrow electrical interface",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/bw-hdk-02",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Connects the Rook and payload-side boards using the Sparrow electrical interface"
        },
        {
          "part": "Bench stands",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Bench stands - 3D-printed fixtures for stable benchtop development and testing",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/bw-hdk-02",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Fixtures for stable benchtop development and testing"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Payload modules (Blackwing catalog)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 payload module (Broadcom BCM2712)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "CM5 SoC: Broadcom BCM2712, quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 @ 2.4 GHz, ARMv8 64-bit",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Edge-compute payload for Sparrow; the Sparrow chassis is its primary heat path",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "RAM options",
              "value": "2, 4, 8 or 16 GB LPDDR4X-4267",
              "quote": "RAM options: 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, or 16 GB LPDDR4X-4267",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5"
            },
            {
              "label": "eMMC options",
              "value": "0, 16, 32 or 64 GB",
              "quote": "eMMC options: Lite / 0 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5"
            },
            {
              "label": "Operating range",
              "value": "-20 to +85 C",
              "quote": "Operating range: −20 °C to +85 °C",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5"
            },
            {
              "label": "Thermal path",
              "value": "chassis is the primary heat path",
              "quote": "Thermal path: Sparrow chassis is the primary heat path to space",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "CM5 module local interfaces (USB 2.0 host, 10/100 Ethernet, 2x CSI, PCIe M.2 Key M 2242)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "PCIe: 1× PCIe Gen 2 ×1 via M.2 Key M 2242 for NVMe storage or compatible peripherals",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Local payload interfaces on the CM5 module besides the single Sparrow 40-pin connector",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Camera",
              "value": "up to 2x MIPS CSI-2 camera interfaces",
              "quote": "CSI camera: Up to 2× MIPI CSI-2 camera interfaces for imaging, optical sensing, and computer vision",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5"
            },
            {
              "label": "Ethernet",
              "value": "10/100 via PicoBlade",
              "quote": "Ethernet: 10/100 Ethernet via PicoBlade for integration / debug workflows",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/payloads/raspberrypicm5"
            }
          ]
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Draft specification page options",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Structure option: PEEK frame",
          "material": "PEEK",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Material: Aluminum 6061-T6 or PEEK",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
          "profile": "peek",
          "mid": "peek",
          "function": "Alternative to aluminium in the draft structure specification (page marked draft, subject to change)"
        },
        {
          "part": "Structure option: carbon composite shell finish",
          "material": "Carbon composite (resin not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Finish: Hard-anodized or carbon composite shell",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "Alternative to hard anodizing in the draft structure specification"
        },
        {
          "part": "Draft solar panel cells (triple-junction GaAs)",
          "material": "Gallium arsenide (triple-junction cells)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Triple-junction GaAs cells > 29 % efficiency",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
          "profile": "gallium-arsenide",
          "mid": "gallium-arsenide",
          "function": "Draft specification for fixed or deployable arrays",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Array output",
              "value": "15 to 90 W depending on area and orientation (draft)",
              "quote": "Output: 15 – 90 W (depending on area/orientation)",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Draft power module cells (Li-ion or LiFePO4)",
          "material": "Lithium-ion or lithium iron phosphate cells (draft)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Configurations: 1U–6U with Li-ion or LiFePO₄ packs",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": "lithium-ion-cell",
          "function": "Draft specification for battery packs sized 1U to 6U",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Battery capacity",
              "value": "40 to 150 Wh (draft)",
              "quote": "Battery Capacity: 40 – 150 Wh",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Draft antennas (deployable spring or hinge type)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Deployable spring or hinge type; integrated ground plane",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "UHF (LoRa), S-band, Iridium and GNSS L1/E1 options with integrated ground plane",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Polarization",
              "value": "Linear, RHCP or LHCP",
              "quote": "Polarization: Linear / RHCP / LHCP",
              "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Draft software-defined radio",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Software-Defined Radio (SDR) firmware reprogrammable on-orbit",
          "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "UHF (LoRa), S-band or Iridium options; firmware reprogrammable on orbit"
        }
      ]
    }
  ],
  "materials": [
    {
      "id": "aluminium-6061",
      "name": "AL 6061 T6",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/aluminium-6061/"
    },
    {
      "id": "fr-4",
      "name": "FR-4 (glass-epoxy laminate; grade not stated)",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/fr-4/"
    },
    {
      "id": "lithium-ion-cell",
      "name": "Lithium-ion or lithium iron phosphate cells (draft)",
      "material_page": null
    },
    {
      "id": "peek",
      "name": "PEEK",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/peek/"
    },
    {
      "id": "carbon-fibre",
      "name": "Carbon composite (resin not stated)",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/carbon-fibre/"
    },
    {
      "id": "gallium-arsenide",
      "name": "Gallium arsenide (triple-junction cells)",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/gallium-arsenide/"
    }
  ],
  "standards": [
    {
      "name": "MIL-PRF-8625 Type II Class 2, black, DI-water seal",
      "org": "MIL",
      "used_for": "Payload Module Top and Bottom housings"
    },
    {
      "name": "ASME Y14.5 (geometric tolerancing)",
      "org": "other",
      "used_for": "Payload module top/bottom drawings (not a material standard)"
    },
    {
      "name": "CubeSat specification (compliance claim only)",
      "org": "other",
      "used_for": "Chassis; the revision is not named"
    }
  ],
  "relations": [
    {
      "type": "launched_on",
      "target": "SEOPS Equalizer Flex (deployer)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Compatible deployer: 1U to 12U, tab and rail, up to 96U per port, flown on SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare",
      "quote": "All integration occurs pre-launch on the ground. Blackwing Compatibility: Sparrow (1U), Kestrel (3U XL), Osprey (6U XL)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/deployers"
    },
    {
      "type": "launched_on",
      "target": "Maverick Space Systems NLAS (deployer)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Compatible deployer: ruggedized 6U (or 2x3U) dispenser with NASA Ames NLAS heritage",
      "quote": "launch brokering services. Blackwing Compatibility: Sparrow (1U), Kestrel (3U XL), Osprey (6U XL)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/deployers"
    },
    {
      "type": "launched_on",
      "target": "Exolaunch EXOpod Nova (deployer)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Compatible deployer: 6U to 16U, expands CubeSat Design Specification limits (+30% mass, +400% protrusion volume)",
      "quote": "optimized for small launch vehicles and OTVs. Blackwing Compatibility: Sparrow (1U), Kestrel (3U XL), Osprey (6U XL)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/deployers"
    },
    {
      "type": "launched_on",
      "target": "NPC Spacemind SMPOD (deployer)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Compatible deployer: SMPOD family, 3U/12U/16U, redundant NEA actuation; named on the home page as SMPOD12",
      "quote": "Compatible with most launch vehicles. Blackwing Compatibility: Sparrow (1U), Kestrel (3U XL), Osprey (6U XL)",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/deployers"
    },
    {
      "type": "built_on",
      "target": "CubeSat Design Specification (Cal Poly)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Interface standard; the draft specification page claims compliance",
      "quote": "Compliance: Full PC/104 and CubeSat Design Standard",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications"
    },
    {
      "type": "built_on",
      "target": "PC/104 form factor",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Board form factor named in the draft specification page",
      "quote": "Compliance: Full PC/104 and CubeSat Design Standard",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/specifications"
    },
    {
      "type": "built_on",
      "target": "CubeSat 101 (NASA CSLI guide to the CubeSat standard)",
      "target_slug": "nasa-cubesat-101",
      "note": "Reference for the CubeSat Design Specification and dispensers; the guide does not name this product",
      "quote": "take a look at the CubeSat Design Specification (CDS)",
      "source_url": "https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/nasa_csli_cubesat_101_508.pdf"
    },
    {
      "type": "heritage_of",
      "target": "PyCubed (open-source CubeSat flight computer)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "The Rook avionics board used on every platform evolved from the PyCubed architecture",
      "quote": "Rook evolved from the PyCubed architecture",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/shop/rook-avionics-board"
    },
    {
      "type": "part_of",
      "target": "Baby Bird (Blackwing Space satellite)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "First Sparrow flight; Baby Bird is the company's inaugural orbital mission",
      "quote": "Baby Bird mission is the company's inaugural orbital mission and the first flight of its Sparrow nanosatellite platform",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-"
    },
    {
      "type": "launched_on",
      "target": "SpaceX Falcon 9, Transporter-18 rideshare (Vandenberg)",
      "target_slug": "spacex-falcon-9",
      "note": "Baby Bird (Sparrow 1U) launched on the Transporter-18 rideshare; the release is dateline October 2, 2026 and the page header says September 02, 2026",
      "quote": "successful launch and deployment of Baby Bird aboard the Transporter-18 rideshare mission with SpaceX from Vandenberg Space Force Base",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "SEOPS Space (launch manifesting and integration)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Manifested and integrated Baby Bird; the release does not name the deployer used",
      "quote": "SEOPS Space manifested and integrated the payload for the company",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-"
    },
    {
      "type": "carries",
      "target": "Manifest Space optical beacon payload",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Primary technology demonstration on Baby Bird",
      "quote": "The mission's primary technology demonstration is Manifest Space's optical beacon payload",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-"
    },
    {
      "type": "carries",
      "target": "Celestis Memorial Spaceflight payload",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Secondary payload on Baby Bird (the 25th Celestis flight)",
      "quote": "the 25th Celestis Memorial Spaceflight payload containing symbolic portions of the cremated remains or DNA of 56 participants",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-"
    },
    {
      "type": "carries",
      "target": "Melagen Labs MLC2 radiation-shielding material",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Secondary payload on Baby Bird",
      "quote": "Melagen Labs' MLC2 radiation-shielding material, designed to protect commercial off-the-shelf electronics",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/8-blackwing-space-successfully-launches-baby-bird-on-transporter-18-rideshare-mission-"
    },
    {
      "type": "part_of",
      "target": "Orbital Software Demonstration Mission (Parsimoni SpaceOS), planned",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Planned, not flown: targeting Q3 2027 on a Sparrow 2U and the CM5 module",
      "quote": "Targeting Q3 2027, the mission will host multiple independent software payloads on Blackwing Space's Sparrow 2U nanosatellite",
      "source_url": "https://blackwingspace.com/news/7-blackwing-space-and-parsimoni-partner-on-orbital-software-rideshare-mission"
    }
  ],
  "not_published": "Connector side is contradictory: the interface guide (v0.3) says payload connector SFM-120-01-L-D and platform connector TFM-120-31-L-D, while the developer page says SFM-120-01-L-D is platform side and TFM-120-31-L-D payload side. The assembly drawing calls SFM-120-01-L-D the avionic interface connector. Not published: chassis anodize standard and class (shop pages say only 'hard anodized'; the payload housings are Type II Class 2, which is a conventional rather than hard anodize), fastener material and count for the chassis, side-panel material, the 'Anodized + Flight' vs 'Non-Flight' difference, PCB laminate, the STEP file carries no material data in its header, solar panels, battery (Puffin Pack), Rook OBC, antenna and radiator materials. Chassis pages say 'Aluminum 6061 T6 or T651' without stating which. The principles page mentions PEEK, ULTEM and carbon-fibre additive manufacturing as aspirations, not as parts. More detail: Blackwing publishes no bill of materials. Not stated anywhere read: chassis fastener count and material, side-panel material, anodize type, solar cell and panel supplier, Puffin Pack cell count and supplier beyond the Rook page line, radio and antenna parts, ADCS and propulsion suppliers, thermal coatings, adhesives. The Specifications page is marked draft and lists a PEEK and carbon composite option that the shop pages do not. The Sparrow pages disagree on payload volume (0.3U vs 0.5U) and rail currents. The chassis page for the 1U gives 'Standard 6U' with 1U dimensions. Baby Bird deployer model is not named; the press release has a dateline of October 2, 2026 but a page date of September 02, 2026. The FAQ section of the developer page contains unrelated NuSCIS text and was not used. More detail: Blackwing publishes no bill of materials. Not stated anywhere read: chassis fastener count and material, side-panel material, anodize type, solar cell and panel supplier, Puffin Pack cell count and supplier beyond the Rook page line, radio and antenna parts, ADCS and propulsion suppliers, thermal coatings, adhesives. The Specifications page is marked draft and lists a PEEK and carbon composite option that the shop pages do not. The Sparrow pages disagree on payload volume (0.3U vs 0.5U) and rail currents. The chassis page for the 1U gives 'Standard 6U' with 1U dimensions. Baby Bird deployer model is not named; the press release has a dateline of October 2, 2026 but a page date of September 02, 2026. The FAQ section of the developer page contains unrelated NuSCIS text and was not used.",
  "depth": "partial",
  "photos": [
    {
      "file": "products/context/blackwing-sparrow-1.jpg",
      "alt": "Baby Bird, the first Sparrow flight unit, on a grey base plate with dark solar panels against a blue backdrop",
      "long": "Baby Bird, the first flight unit on the Sparrow platform (a 1.5U CubeSat), on a grey base plate with black feet. It has dark solar panels, a grey frame and a white wire harness.",
      "kind": "product",
      "credit": "SEOPS",
      "license": "Maker photo, shown with credit",
      "page_url": "https://seops.space/news/ready-for-launch-meet-baby-bird-flying-on-the-transporter-18-rideshare-mission/"
    },
    {
      "file": "products/context/blackwing-sparrow-2.jpg",
      "alt": "Baby Bird CubeSat on black feet in front of an orange backdrop during vibration testing",
      "long": "Baby Bird, the first Sparrow-platform flight unit, during flight acceptance vibration testing, with its harness running to the side panels.",
      "kind": "product",
      "credit": "Manifest Space",
      "license": "Maker photo, shown with credit",
      "page_url": "https://www.manifest.space/post/baby-bird-from-integration-to-orbit-ready"
    },
    {
      "file": "products/gallery/blackwing-sparrow-1.jpg",
      "alt": "Tiny CubeSat released near a space station robotic arm, with large solar arrays and Earth below",
      "kind": "generic",
      "credit": "NASA",
      "license": "Public domain",
      "page_url": "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Light-1_CubeSat_%28iss066e135088%29.jpg",
      "long": "A small satellite floats beneath a robotic arm and station solar panels, with the bright curve of Earth at the bottom of the frame."
    },
    {
      "file": "products/gallery/blackwing-sparrow-2.jpg",
      "alt": "Small CubeSat drifting below a large purple-blue solar array over Earth's bright limb",
      "kind": "generic",
      "credit": "NASA",
      "license": "Public domain",
      "page_url": "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Qarman_CubeSat_deployed_from_ISS.jpg",
      "long": "A dark elongated satellite floats under rows of blue solar cells with copper-coloured edging. Clouds and the horizon fill the lower half."
    }
  ],
  "context": {
    "size": [
      "1U",
      "1.5U to 2U"
    ]
  },
  "licence": "Product data CC BY 4.0, cite Space Mushroom. Photos keep their own licences, given per photo.",
  "mcp": "https://spacemushroom.com/mcp"
}