Sparrow Payload Platform

Build Your Payload.
We Fly It.

The Sparrow Developer Kit will evolve into a complete Hardware and Software Development Kit (HDK + SDK) for building payloads on the Sparrow platform. Today, it begins with the Sparrow Payload Interface Guide, defining the mechanical, electrical, and data interfaces required for integration. Additional hardware references, software tools, and example designs will be added over time. Why we build this way

Payload Interface Guide HDK Coming SDK Coming
Sparrow Platform - View 1 Sparrow Platform - View 2
0.5U
Payload Volume
1kg
Max Mass
10W
Orbit Avg Power
3.3V
Payload Logic
5–8.4V
VBATT Rail

Developer Resources

Explore Sparrow Resources

Documentation, reference designs, and integration guides to accelerate your payload development.

Payload Interface Guide

Complete electrical, mechanical, and connector specifications. The definitive reference for SWaP budgets, pinout, and power rails.

Read the guide
STEP Template

3D mechanical model of the payload module envelope. Import into your CAD tool to verify fit, clearances, and connector engagement.

Download STEP
GD&T Drawing

Dimensioned and toleranced mechanical drawing of the Sparrow payload module, including mounting features, datums, and interface-critical geometry.

Download PDF
Bill of Materials

Mating connector, recommended passives, TVS diodes, and fuses with manufacturer part numbers and distributor equivalents.

View BOM Coming Soon
Design Checklist

One-page checklist covering every interface requirement. Complete this as part of your integration review submission.

Download PDF Coming Soon
Example Payloads

Block diagrams showing how the Sparrow interface supports common missions: imaging, IoT/SDR, and science instruments.

View examples Coming Soon

Hardware Development Kit

Sparrow Payload Adapter Board

A KiCad 8 reference design implementing the complete Sparrow payload electrical interface. Fork it as your starting point — connector footprint, board outline, and keep-out zones are pre-validated.

What's in the HDK

Power input filtering and decoupling on all three rails. Over-current protection with specific part numbers. I2C pull-ups sized for 400 kHz Fast Mode. ESD protection on all digital lines. Test points on every signal. Board outline matching the 0.5U envelope with keep-out zones. Plus the validated Samtec connector footprint and 3D model.

Download Project Coming Soon View on GitHub Coming Soon
sparrow-payload-hdk-v1.0/ ├── README.md ├── LICENSE ├── sparrow-payload-adapter.kicad_pro ├── sparrow-payload-adapter.kicad_sch ├── sparrow-payload-adapter.kicad_pcb ├── symbols/ │ └── blackwing-sparrow.kicad_sym ├── footprints/ │ └── SFM-120-01-L-D.kicad_mod ├── 3d-models/ │ └── SFM-120-01-L-D.step ├── docs/ │ ├── schematic.pdf │ ├── bom.csv │ └── design-notes.md └── manufacturing/ ├── gerbers/ └── pick-and-place.csv

Sparrow Platform Roadmap

What's Available & What's Next

We're building the Sparrow Developer Kit iteratively. Here's what's available now, and what's coming next. Why we build this way

Available now
Coming soon
Payload Interface Guide

Electrical, mechanical, and data interfaces

STEP Mechanical Template

Payload module envelope fit check

GD&T Drawing

Payload module PDF drawing (ASME Y14.5)

HDK KiCad Reference Design

Adapter schematic + PCB + manufacturing outputs

Payload Software Interface Spec

Command and telemetry definitions

SDK + Payload Simulator

Software tools for payload firmware testing

Get Started

Ready to Build Your Payload?

Whether you're prototyping a new sensor, building a commercial imaging payload, or running a university mission — we want to hear about your project.

Contact Payload Team Join Developer Community Coming Soon