Blog

Reducing total cost of ownership in space missions

Why software architecture drives lifetime mission cost

The true cost of operating a satellite mission extends far beyond the spacecraft itself. Fragmented software, duplicated effort and complex integrations significantly increase total cost of ownership over the lifetime of a mission or constellation. 

HELIX is designed to reduce these costs through: 

  • Rapid software development: Modular, reusable components shorten development cycles and reduce engineering effort 
  • Integrated systems: A unified architecture keeps flight and ground software in sync, reducing errors and rework 
  • Hardware interoperability: A service-oriented framework minimises costly bespoke integrations 
  • Security and reliability: Consistent security controls reduce operational and financial risk 

Across the full mission lifecycle, these efficiencies compound. By reducing complexity and enabling reuse at scale, HELIX can lower total cost of ownership by around 50%, making satellite programmes faster, safer and more cost-effective. 

How HELIX reduces TCO

HELIX reduces costs through multiple levers:

1. Rapid software development

  • Modular, reusable components cut development time
  • Flightkit enables complete software delivery in under six months
  • Reuse across multiple spacecraft lowers long-term effort

2. Integrated software systems

  • Eliminates duplication and manual configuration
  • Keeps flight and ground systems in sync automatically
  • Streamlines lifecycle management and reduces operational effort

3. Hardware interoperability

  • Harmonises diverse off-the-shelf subsystems
  • Removes bespoke adaptations and bottlenecks
  • Reduces integration effort for new satellites

4. Security and reliability

  • Unified architecture strengthens access control, monitoring, and encryption
  • Minimises downtime and prevents costly breaches
  • Protects mission value across the entire constellation

Together, these efficiencies can reduce TCO by around 50%, making missions faster, safer, and far more cost-effective.

Previous: Cybersecurity gaps in space software
Hub: What is HELIX? Overview

HELIX delivers a unified, modular, and model-based software framework that reduces cost, simplifies operations, and maximises mission efficiency. By integrating development, operations, and security, it allows organisations to scale their fleets confidently while controlling lifetime expenditure.

Lower your mission TCO with HELIX

Request a demo or speak to our engineering team today.