Breakthrough Achieved in Remote Sensing Satellite Project with BLT’s Metal 3D Printing; OpenHarmony System Successfully Validated In-Orbit

Researchers from Dalian University of Technology, COSATS Space (Xi'an) Technology Co., Ltd., and Xi'an Aerospace Propulsion Research Institute have jointly published the article *On-Orbit Validation of the OpenHarmony Real-Time Operating System Based on the Dalian-1 Lianli Satellite*. The paper presents both ground-based testing and in-orbit validation of the OpenHarmony RTOS, which has been ported to three key attitude determination subsystems: the magnetometer, the digital interface sun sensor, and the attitude measurement unit. This work lays a solid foundation for the deployment of OpenHarmony RTOS in future micro- and nanosatellite missions.

511 Days in Orbit: A Testament to Robust Performance

The “Dalian-1 Lianli Satellite” is a 12U, 17-kg high-resolution remote sensing CubeSat, designed and developed by Dalian University of Technology, with participation from COSATS Space, BLT, and other partners. The satellite was launched aboard Tianzhou-6 on May 10, 2023, and stored aboard China’s space station for 253 days before successfully entering orbit on January 18, 2024. Notably, this marks the world’s first in-orbit application of OpenHarmony RTOS on a satellite powered by domestic Chinese chips.

BLT was responsible for the structural optimization and additive manufacturing of the satellite deployer frame. The part was printed in a single build using the BLT-S800 eight-laser system and AlSi10Mg aluminum alloy. Dimensional inspections confirmed that critical dimensions met stringent aerospace tolerances, enabling the satellite to withstand extreme conditions such as high/low temperatures, thermal vacuum, and atomic oxygen corrosion, ensuring long-term orbital storage and reliable deployment.

Since orbital insertion, the satellite has operated continuously for 511 days. All three attitude determination subsystems have remained stable, with telemetry data confirming that performance metrics were met. During this time, the satellite captured high-resolution imagery with a spatial resolution better than 1 meter. Remarkably, the OpenHarmony RTOS-powered subsystems operated smoothly even after enduring 253 days in orbit within the harsh environment of the space station—showcasing exceptional service durability.

△ Photo of Dalian University of Technology captured by the Lianli Satellite

Accelerating Satellite Production Through 3D Printing

As global demand for satellites continues to rise, different types of spacecraft play vital roles across a range of domains:

* Remote sensing satellites provide key support for agriculture, environmental monitoring, and disaster warnings, and are essential for commercial data services.

* Communication satellites facilitate global internet coverage and enable connectivity in remote and extreme environments.

* Navigation satellites underpin emerging technologies such as low-altitude economy, autonomous driving, and drone-based logistics.

* Technology demonstration satellites support validation of reusable launch vehicles, inter-satellite links, and iterative hardware upgrades.

These satellite types—communication, navigation, remote sensing, and experimental—are entering large-scale production phases. BLT, with its comprehensive industrial ecosystem, empowers the acceleration of this shift.

In terms of manufacturing processes, BLT offers advanced solutions such as green laser technology, thick-layer printing, support-free design, and high-precision forming, significantly enhancing print efficiency for complex satellite structures. Equipment-wise, the company boasts over 3,000 lasers and has introduced ultra-large-format multi-laser systems to meet high-volume production needs. Regarding materials, BLT has mastered the processing of more than 80 printable alloys, including titanium and high-temperature superalloys. Proprietary titanium alloys (Ti6Al4V, TA15) and superalloys developed in-house have passed AS9100 certification for aerospace applications. In innovation, BLT has filed 646 patent applications as of the end of 2024 and is actively engaged in multiple national R\&D programs driving advancements in satellite manufacturing.

The Dalian-1 Lianli mission marks a significant validation of BLT’s capability to enhance spacecraft design freedom, reduce weight, and enable rapid deployment. As a transformative force in aerospace manufacturing, 3D printing will continue to empower the mass production of satellites and contribute meaningfully to the development of orbital infrastructure, including expansive low-Earth orbit constellations.