Session
Technical Session XI: Advanced Subsystems and Components II
Abstract
Small satellites are becoming the solution of choice for planners trying to reduce space mission costs and shorten schedules. Secondary launches are a quick, frequent, low-cost, reliable solution for small satellites. Most international small spacecraft are launched as secondary piggyback payloads, aboard larger more efficient rockets. However, piggyback accommodations in the US are rare, done only on a case-by-case basis, and far from low cost. AeroAstro is presently developing the Universal Small Payload Interface (USPI), a standardized template for integrating and launching small spacecraft. It is designed so that mission developers can design to its requirements in order to be compatible on demand with a number of different secondary launch vehicle slots. The ‘Phase A’ USPI, based exclusively on existing secondary opportunities, will be complete by August 2000. Phases B and C, based on potential modifications of existing launch vehicles, will be complete by the end of the year. Missions will be quickly designed to a common interface standard, decreasing their dependence on a specific launch. When the spacecraft is ready, the next USPI launch available will be used, bringing ‘launch on-demand’ closer to reality.
Universal Small Payload Interface – An Assessment of US Piggyback Launch Capability
Small satellites are becoming the solution of choice for planners trying to reduce space mission costs and shorten schedules. Secondary launches are a quick, frequent, low-cost, reliable solution for small satellites. Most international small spacecraft are launched as secondary piggyback payloads, aboard larger more efficient rockets. However, piggyback accommodations in the US are rare, done only on a case-by-case basis, and far from low cost. AeroAstro is presently developing the Universal Small Payload Interface (USPI), a standardized template for integrating and launching small spacecraft. It is designed so that mission developers can design to its requirements in order to be compatible on demand with a number of different secondary launch vehicle slots. The ‘Phase A’ USPI, based exclusively on existing secondary opportunities, will be complete by August 2000. Phases B and C, based on potential modifications of existing launch vehicles, will be complete by the end of the year. Missions will be quickly designed to a common interface standard, decreasing their dependence on a specific launch. When the spacecraft is ready, the next USPI launch available will be used, bringing ‘launch on-demand’ closer to reality.
