Aerospace and Defense Review

Addressing the Challenges and Gaps in Small Satellite Technology

Small satellites face challenges such as limited lifespan, communication difficulties, and policy issues, but ongoing research and technology advancements offer solutions for greater effectiveness in space exploration and communication.

FREMONT, CA: The swift increase in the manufacturing and launching of small satellites has brought about a significant transformation in space exploration. Aerospace has been the leader in developing CubeSat technology and reducing the size of satellites, even before the establishment of the CubeSat standard. By utilising the impressive accomplishments of laboratories to establish the benchmark for dependability and technology growth in the small satellite community, proficiency has facilitated the creation of innovative space designs that incorporate a blend of valuable resources.

Biggest Advancements in CubeSat

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It is magnificent to witness the accomplishments made on these platforms. Technological progress has enabled the integration of smaller payloads and sensors into compact satellite platforms while still delivering considerable mission capabilities.  These operations generate top-notch scientific outcomes, facilitating viable missions and unveiling commercial prospects in space.

What Challenges Do These Advancements Present?

The major obstacles in space-related activities will centre around ensuring the sustainability and safety of space, guaranteeing cyber security, managing the supply chain, and regulating space traffic.  Progressions in these domains are vital for the welfare of all those interested in engaging in space operations. Policy-making and licensing remain challenging for numerous developers.

An Important Development in Aerospace With Small Satellite Technologies

The aerospace industry is constantly focusing on upcoming challenges and improving its capabilities. Two significant undertakings are the Slingshot 1 mission and DiskSat. Slingshot is utilising modularity, standard interfaces, open architectures, and autonomous technologies, utilising the benefits of open standards and non-proprietary interfaces to streamline and accelerate the development and integration of payloads. These technologies may introduce a new era of enhanced agility, durability, and a longer lifespan for space systems by enabling more efficient upgrades or replacements of onboard components as required.

DiskSat is a novel type of satellite structure that will be integrated into a NASA demonstration mission in 2024. Unlike traditional satellite containerisation, this concept offers the advantages of a standardised launch interface, reduced launch expenses, and a straightforward mechanical design, while also featuring significant surface areas that can be allocated to sizeable antennas or instruments that require exposure to space and high power. The aerospace industry has been extensively engaged in the advancement of low SWAP (size, weight, and power) optical communications, as well as rendezvous and proximity operations. Furthermore, the industry remains at the forefront of space safety, space policy, cyber security, participation in the Space ISAC (information sharing and analysis centre), and supply chain initiatives.

Importance of Small Satellite Technology in the Larger Space Enterprise

Small satellite technology is widespread in academia, government, and industry, making it a crucial component of the overall space industry. Government agencies are currently utilising commercial data and systems for current and future capabilities, as well as constructing and launching their small satellites. In the future, we can expect to see more hybrid architectures involving various types of satellites. Eventually, the distinction between small and large satellites may become obsolete as small satellites become a regular part of the satellite landscape.

The Future of Small Satellite

There is a lot of excitement around using small satellites in higher orbits, such as cislunar and interplanetary space. One example is the Capstone mission, which is testing an elliptical lunar orbit as a pathfinder for NASA's Gateway lunar outpost. Small satellites will play a role in these processes as the ecosystem for in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing matures. New trends include orbital manoeuvring vehicles and propulsive ESPA devices that can help get satellites where they need to go without the need for extra onboard propellant. There are also promising technologies emerging in areas such as additive manufacturing, electric propulsion, solar sails, laser communications, robotics, and autonomous systems.

 Biggest Gaps in Small Satellite Development

To accommodate higher-performance systems within smaller satellite platforms, various technical considerations need to be addressed. For instance, missions to GEO, the moon, and deep space require advancements in on-orbit processing, autonomy, power, thermal management, and reliable communications capable of handling larger data sets. Additionally, reliable propulsion technology is necessary for manoeuvrability. Technologies that enable better cooperation between satellites and improvements in guidance, navigation, and control systems are needed for formation flying, inspection, and servicing missions. Moreover, cyber security advancements are required to safeguard space systems, and efforts to minimise space debris must be made. Finally, it is essential to determine the best approach for implementing small satellite standards to benefit the entire SmallSat community.

Small satellites have become an easingly popular option for space exploration and communication, but there are still several challenges and gaps that need to be addressed. These include issues such as limited lifespan, communication difficulties, and technological limitations, which can affect the usefulness and effectiveness of small satellites. Additionally, there are regulatory and policy challenges that need to be resolved in order to enable more widespread use of small satellites. Nevertheless, with ongoing research and development efforts, as well as the emergence of new technologies and innovations, many of these challenges can likely be overcome in the coming years, making small satellites an even more valuable tool for space exploration and communication.

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