Next Generation CubeSats and SmallSats

Enabling Technologies, Missions, and Markets

1st Edition - July 10, 2023
Editors: Francesco Branz, Chantal Cappelletti, Antonio J. Ricco, John Hines
Language: English
Paperback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 1 2 - 8 2 4 5 4 1 - 5
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 1 2 - 8 2 4 5 4 2 - 2

Next Generation of CubeSats and SmallSats: Enabling Technologies, Missions, and Markets provides a comprehensive understanding of the small and medium sized satellite approach… Read more

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Next Generation of CubeSats and SmallSats: Enabling Technologies, Missions, and Markets provides a comprehensive understanding of the small and medium sized satellite approach and its potentialities and limitations. The book analyzes promising applications (e.g., constellations and distributed systems, small science platforms that overachieve relative to their development time and cost) as paradigm-shifting solutions for space exploitation, with an analysis of market statistics and trends and a prediction of where the technologies, and consequently, the field is heading in the next decade. The book also provides a thorough analysis of CubeSat potentialities and applications, and addresses unique technical approaches and systems strategies.

Throughout key sections (introduction and background, technology details, systems, applications, and future prospects), the book provides basic design tools scaled to the small satellite problem, assesses the technological state-of-the-art, and describes the most recent advancements with a look to the near future. This new book is for aerospace engineering professionals, advanced students, and designers seeking a broad view of the CubeSat world with a brief historical background, strategies, applications, mission scenarios, new challenges and upcoming advances.

Cover image
Title page
Table of Contents
Copyright
List of contributors
Acknowledgment
List of Acronyms
Section 1: Setting the stage: history, context, and essential considerations
1. Introduction
Abstract
Reference
2. The concept and history of small satellites
Abstract
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Historical small satellite launch rates
2.3 The start of the space age
2.4 The early space age
2.5 The large space era
2.6 The new space era
2.7 Summary
References
3. Comparing platform paradigms: CubeSats versus SmallSats
Abstract
3.1 Defining the platform: what is small
3.2 Brief history of SmallSats: regular and pocketsize
3.3 Performance: what metric(s) to compare
3.4 Risk analysis and scaling for small satellites
3.5 A look at increasing CubeSat reliability
3.6 Summary
References
4. Evolving capabilities and limitations of future CubeSat missions
Abstract
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Electric power system
4.3 On-board computer—command and data handling system
4.4 Communications system
4.5 Attitude determination and control system
4.6 Orbit control system
4.7 Thermal control system
4.8 Deployable mechanisms
4.9 Reliable and radiation tolerant electronics
4.10 Satellite payloads
4.11 Conclusions
Acknowledgments
References
5. Legal framework for commercial space exploitation in the NewSpace era
Abstract
5.1 Introduction
5.2 International space law
5.3 The international telecommunications regime
5.4 National space legislation
5.5 Conclusion
6. Insights toward an ethical assessment of CubeSat technologies
Abstract
6.1 Space ethics and nanosatellites
6.2 Anthropological issues: ethics and technology
6.3 Environmental issues: sustainability
6.4 Social issues: accessibility
6.5 The ethical matrix: insights for an assessment of CubeSats
6.6 Conclusions
References
Section 2: Key enablers: new technologies, components, and implementations
7. Additive manufacturing for CubeSat structure fabrication
Abstract
Nomenclature
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Additive manufacturing technologies and materials
7.3 CubeSat structure constrains
7.4 Additive manufacturing approach to CubeSat structures fabrication
7.5 Design for additive manufacturing
7.6 Additive manufacturing process design
7.7 Conclusions
References
8. Mechanisms for CubeSats and SmallSats
Abstract
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Design drivers
8.3 CubeSat mechanism technologies
8.4 The future of small spacecraft mechanisms
8.5 Conclusions
References
9. Introduction to CubeSat power systems
Abstract
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Power generation and conversion
9.3 Energy storage
9.4 Power management and distribution
9.5 Space environmental considerations
9.6 Nanomaterials for CubeSat power systems
Acknowledgments
References
10. Attitude determination and control system relying on magnetic bearing reaction wheels
Abstract
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Attitude determination and control system controllers
10.3 Attitude determination and control system sensors
10.4 Attitude determination and control system actuators
10.5 Magnetic bearing reaction wheels
10.6 Conclusions
References
11. Electro-optical-based relative navigation for close-proximity operations
Abstract
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Spaceborne electro-optical sensors for close-proximity relative navigation
11.3 Relative navigation architecture
11.4 Conclusion
References
12. Control architectures and algorithms
Abstract
Nomenclature
12.1 Control architectures
12.2 Algorithms
12.3 Applications
12.4 Conclusions
References
13. Next-generation CubeSats and SmallSats thermal control subsystem
Abstract
13.1 Satellite thermal design
13.2 Satellite thermal design early history
13.3 Small satellite thermal design challenges
13.4 Advancements in thermal design processes for small satellites
13.5 Advancements in thermal software
13.6 Advancements in thermal hardware for CubeSats and SmallSats
13.7 Electronics board level thermal control
13.8 Thermal interface materials
13.9 Annealed pyrolytic graphite cores
13.10 Thermal straps
13.11 Thermally isolating interfaces
13.12 Heaters
13.13 Thermal control surface coatings
13.14 Heat pipes
13.15 Cryocoolers and thermoelectric coolers
13.16 Thermal storage
13.17 Deployable radiators and shades
13.18 Louver systems
13.19 Future of CubeSat and SmallSat thermal subsystems
References
Further reading
14. Radio frequency telecommunication systems for CubeSats and SmallSats
Abstract
14.1 Introduction
14.2 State of the art of telecommunication systems for CubeSats
14.3 Future trends
14.4 Summary
Acknowledgment
References
15. Optical communcation
Abstract
15.1 Introduction
15.2 Challenges of optical communications
15.3 Link budget
15.4 Modulation
15.5 Optical terminal architecture
15.6 Optical communication terminals for small satellites
15.7 Conclusions
References
16. Command and data handling systems
Abstract
16.1 Introduction
16.2 Radiation hardness assurance: a new approach for “new space”
16.3 Current state-of-the-art systems
16.4 Design considerations
16.5 Current and future mission scenarios
16.6 Conclusions
References
Section 3: In transit: launch, propulsion, and space operations
17. Innovative and low-cost launch systems
Abstract
17.1 Introduction
17.2 The “gold rush” of space commercialization
17.3 Existing Micro-launch vehicle
17.4 Micro-launch vehicle under development
17.5 Some innovative ways to reach orbit
17.6 Orbital transfer vehicles
17.7 Conclusions
References
18. Chemical and cold gas propulsion systems
Abstract
18.1 Historical background
18.2 Principle of operation of cold gas and chemical micro-propulsion systems
18.3 Current state-of-the-art commercial-off-the-shelf systems
18.4 Applications to small satellite missions
18.5 Conclusions and future challenges
References
19. Dual-mode propulsion systems for SmallSats
Abstract
Nomenclature
19.1 Introduction
19.2 Dual-mode propulsion mission analysis and benefits
19.3 Dual-mode propulsion concepts for CubeSats
19.4 Conclusions
Acknowledgements
References
20. Electric propulsion systems
Abstract
20.1 History and status
20.2 Low thrust missions
20.3 Overview of electric thrusters
20.4 Performance details
20.5 Electric propulsion subsystems
20.6 Future perspectives
References
21. Propellant-less systems
Abstract
21.1 Background on the history of solar sails
21.2 Solar radiation pressure
21.3 Solar sail configuration
21.4 Solar sails orbital dynamics
21.5 Solar sails and libration point orbits
21.6 Solar sail mission applications
21.7 Conclusions
References
22. Close-proximity operations, formation flying, and on-orbit servicing
Abstract
22.1 Introduction
22.2 Mission design and enabling technology
22.3 Spacecraft dynamics
22.4 Guidance, navigation, and control
22.5 Examples
22.6 Conclusion
References
Section 4: Opportunities: payloads, applications, and markets
23. Overview of the New Space CubeSat market
Abstract
23.1 Introduction
23.2 New Space context
23.3 Technology trends
23.4 Technical trends
23.5 Customer focus—applications
23.6 Business models
23.7 Product development processes
23.8 Conclusions
Acknowledgments
References
24. Spectroscopy on CubeSats and SmallSats
Abstract
Nomenclature
24.1 Introduction
24.2 Spectroscopy on CubeSats and SmallSats
24.3 Future developments
24.4 Challenges and outlook
Acknowledgments
References
25. Microbial biology on CubeSats
Abstract
25.1 Introduction
25.2 NASA’s biological CubeSats to date
25.3 Upcoming beyond low Earth orbit missions
25.4 Future perspectives
References
26. STARS series satellite
Abstract
26.1 STARS and STARS-II
26.2 Space tethered autonomous robotic satellite-cube
26.3 STARS-Me
26.4 STARS-E
26.5 Summary
26.6 Future STARS mission (toward space elevator)
References
27. UVSQ-SAT/INSPIRESat-5 Earth observation CubeSat: from mission design to operations
Abstract
27.1 Scientific objectives
27.2 Design and analysis
27.3 Assembly, integration, calibration, and tests
27.4 Operations in-orbit and results
References
28. Summary, Conclusions, and Future Perspectives
Abstract
References
Index

Francesco Branz

Francesco Branz received the Ph.D. degree in space sciences, technologies and measurements from the Centre of Studies and Activities for Space “Giuseppe Colombo” (CISAS), University of Padova, Italy. He is a Research Associate in Space Systems and Equipments with the Department of Industrial Engineering of the University of Padova, and is also affiliated with CISAS. His research interests focus on space robotics, CubeSat technology, relative navigation sensors, docking mechanisms, and optical communication. He has taken part in several national and international research projects. Currently, he is technical leader in two ESA-funded projects: the development of a CubeSat-sized docking mechanism in the framework of the Space Rider Observer Cube (SROC) mission, and the development of a simulation tool for the validation of GNC algorithms to enable the capture of space vehicles by a manipulator-equipped chaser satellite.

Affiliations and expertise

Researcher Associate, Department in Space Systems and Equipments, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Italy

Chantal Cappelletti

Dr. Chantal Cappelletti is currently an Assistant Professor at University of Nottingham, where she is affiliated with the Nottingham Geospatial Institute and Gas Turbine & Transmissions Research Centre. Previously, she was an Assistant Professor at the University of Brasilia (Brazil) and a visiting researcher at Morehead State University (USA). She is an active member of the International Academy of Astronautics and chairwoman of the IAA Latin American CubeSat workshop. She is a co-founder of the Italian company GAUSS Srl, whose main business is small satellite components and launch providers. As CEO of the company, she procured the launch of several satellites from different countries and the first PocketQubeSat launch ever. She has led 6 satellite projects involving students from different countries and universities. Her activities focus mainly on small satellites and educational programs, with specific interests also on Space Debris and Biomedical research in space. Recently she established the UoN CubeSat program, involving students from different disciplines and faculties. Currently, Dr Chantal and her team are working on 4 satellite projects (leading on two of these), and has several international collaborations in Europe, Brazil, Russia and United States. She is authors of more than 50 publications and co-editor of the "CubeSat Handbook: from mission analysis to operation

Affiliations and expertise

Assistant Professor, University of Nottingham, UK

Antonio J. Ricco

Antonio J. Ricco received BS and PhD degrees in chemistry from UC Berkeley and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, respectively. He’s held positions at Sandia National Laboratories, the University of Heidelberg (visiting professor), ACLARA BioSciences, the Biomedical Diagnostics Institute (Dublin City University; adjunct professor), Stanford University, and NASA Ames Research Center. His R&D experience includes chemical microsensors and microsystems; polymer microfluidic systems for biotech research and pathogen detection; point-of-care medical diagnostic devices; autonomous bioanalytical systems for space biology and astrobiology studies aboard small satellites; and search-for-life analytical payloads for missions to the icy worlds of the solar system. At NASA/Ames, where he is presently on secondment from Stanford, he has served as project technologist for the GeneSat, PharmaSat, O/OREOS, EcAMSat and SporeSat spaceflight nanosatellite missions; instrument scientist and mission manager for the O/OREOS mission; and payload technologist for the BioSentinel deep space mission. He is PI of the NASA projects SPLIce: Sample Processor for Life on Icy Worlds and MICA: Microfluidic Icy-world Chemical Analyzer, and a member of the ESA Topical Team on Future Astrobiology Experiments in Earth Orbit and Beyond. Dr. Ricco is co-author of over 275 publications, 400 presentations, and 23 issued patents. He was an E.T.S. Walton Fellow (Science Foundation Ireland), is a Fellow of The Electrochemical Society and the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering, and serves as Vice President of the Transducer Research Foundation.

Affiliations and expertise

NASA Ames Research Center’s Chief Technologist for Small Payloads while on assignment from Stanford University

John Hines

John Hines is Founder/Executive Director of the Hines Family Foundation for Education, Innovation, and Service (HFF), a non-profit Atlanta, Georgia STEM, Innovation and Technology Workforce enabler, which aims to provide resources, opportunities and support for deserving, underrepresented, under-resourced individuals and groups. John is also Managing Director and Chief Technical Officer at JH Technology Associates LLC (JHTA), a California Technology Consulting and Advisory Services company. in December, 2012, John retired as NASA-Ames Chief Technologist (CCT) after nearly 37 years of service. Earlier, John was Chief Technologist in the ARC Engineering Directorate, Deputy Chief and Chief Technologist for the Small Spacecraft Division. As originator of the Ames Nanosatellite Missions Office, John initiated, directed or facilitated ten Nanosatellite/ISS/Free Flyer missions. From 2002-2009 John was the Principal Investigator / Program Manager for Biosensors and in-situ Bio-analytical Systems. Under John’s direction, these teams developed/applied advanced technologies for Medical/Biological, Biotechnology, small satellites, wearable biomedical biotelemetry sensors, and bio-analytical measurement systems. From 2002-2004, John was Program Manager for the NASA-NIH-NCI Biomolecular Physics and Chemistry Program. John has Chaired Peer and Program reviews and panels for the NASA Space Technology Programs, and served on two National Academy of Sciences Committees: Space-Based Additive Manufacturing of Space Hardware, and the NAS Space Technology Industry-Government-University Roundtable. John has a BS in Electrical Engineering from Tuskegee University, a MS in Biomedical/Electrical Engineering from Stanford University, and nearly 50 years of combined NASA/Air Force/Research Institute experience in biological/biomedical technology development, spaceflight hardware development, electronic systems, technology assessment, program/project/product development, management, and program advocacy.

Affiliations and expertise

Chairman, Hines Family Foundation for Education, Innovation, and Service (HFF)