Big Paradigm Shift in Small Satellite Technology and Applications

Abstract

In recent years, the space sector is going through an incredible transformation. The services from large satellites are actively considered for replacement with smaller satellites which have several advantages compared to the traditional satellites. These are designed and manufactured at a lower cost with flexibility in reducing the lead times. In addition, several low earth orbit satellite Iinternet constellations using small satellites are already being developed for low-cost and low-latency Internet access from space. The services are comparable with addition of the newer functions. The experimentation possibilities using new technologies are more feasible resulting in an accelerated pace of innovation. Starting from the selection of components including those which are rated non-space Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS), following the revised derating guidelines, up screening the modules and subsystems to the required environmental stress levels, and complying with the modified product realization and packaging guidelines are some of the path-breaking practices that are becoming common in faster realization of small satellite. Modular designs and application of best practices of a manufacturing industry set up dominate the cost expectations from the small satellite programs. The miniaturization trends in multiple technologies such as in sensors, computing and electronic subsystems have benefited different types of small satellites. Communication, data, earth observation and navigation areas are benefitted in small satellites with the technological advancements in the commercial and industrial domains and their chipsets. While the small satellites are generally in low earth orbits (LEOs), they can offer services comparable to larger satellites in medium earth orbits (MEOs) or geosationary earth orbit (GEOs). This paper describes the small satellite classification, drivers for their growth, technology trends, and applications. It also explains the eco-system available and the players involved in the growth of the small satellite markets.