The potential of small satellites for scientific and astronomical discovery

Abstract

The development of small satellites for telecommunication constellations in low-Earth orbit provides a unique opportunity to the astronomical community. Mass-produced, commercial satellite platforms can host dedicated scientific payloads and expand access to space-based astronomy. Technologies critical to the development of small orbital instruments have been demonstrated by exploratory missions. By employing these capabilities and techniques in mass-produced spacecraft, terrestrial limitations such as geography, atmosphere and planetary motion can be overcome at a fraction of the cost of traditional space-based astronomy missions. Instruments could be deployed across swarms, or even constellations, of small, cheap and reliably produced spacecraft. With the continuing democratization of space, it is now timely and opportune to consider the approaches necessary to maximize the scientific potential of innovations driven by the commercial sector. The commercial development of small satellites provides a unique opportunity to the astronomical community to overcome terrestrial limitations such as geography, atmosphere and planetary motion at a fraction of the cost of traditional space-based astronomy missions.