Small Satellite Development and Future Vision of NASDA

Abstract

The National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) has launched 40 satellites since its establishment in 1969. Meanwhile, the size of satellites has become larger due to enhanced mission requirements or enlarged space vehicles. The development period of large satellites tends to be prolonged due to complicated interfaces. However, the development, launch and demonstration of new space technologies are required in line with the rapid progress of science and technology. Therefore, NASDA has initiated the Mission Demonstration Satellite (MDS) series and other small satellites. MDS-1, the first satellite of the series, will be launched in 2001 by a H-IIA rocket, and the onboard mission candidates of MDS-3 are now under selection. NASDA has also developed an Optical Inter-orbit Communications Engineering Test Satellite (OICETS) and other small satellites. The advantages of small satellites are that the development period is short if the missions are few or simple, and that the mission can launch multiple satellites simultaneously. Therefore, while carrying on MDS-1 and other projects, NASDA is now studying an advanced LEO satellite for Earth observation, information technology, or technology demonstration, and will aim to realize a satellite system making the most of the advantages of small satellites in the new future.