Key highlights

The Kongsberg KARMA-4 is a second generation (SG) Solar Array Drive Mechanism (SADM) designed for space applications.

It consists of two main subsystems - the driveline with motor/gear and the rotary solar power and signal transfer unit.

The product is mainly suitable for use in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) missions.

Key features

General:

  • Long life
  • Low mass
  • Handles different power transfer units
  • Accurate position feedback

Slip-ring configuration:

  • Continuous rotation
  • High power capability

Twist-capsule configuration:

  • ±177.5° rotation
  • Flexible end stop location
  • Optional end stop proximity feedback

Flight heritage

KARMA-4 SG is currently flying on 5 satellites - Sentinel-1 A/B, Sentinel-3 A/B, and ExoMars, and has been contracted to several other satellite missions.

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Last updated: 2025-02-10

KARMA-4 SG Solar Array Drive Mechanism (SADM)

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Technical specs

mass
3.8 kg to 4.7 kg (depending on configuration)
diameter
150 mm
length
240 mm
operating temperature
-30 to 85 C

Export

  • Click here to add the Kongsberg - KARMA-4 SG Solar Array Drive Mechanism (SADM) to the Valispace engineering tool from satsearch
  • Click here to add the Kongsberg - KARMA-4 SG Solar Array Drive Mechanism (SADM) to Lynapse Studio by Spacebackend
  • Click here to add the Kongsberg - KARMA-4 SG Solar Array Drive Mechanism (SADM) to 360 by IENAI

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