Session
Technical Session III: Making Space Accessible
Abstract
This paper addresses the key requirements for a commercial small satellite platform, and the specific problems encountered in effectively adapting it to a range of mission types. A modular concept is proposed, which may be reconfigured to more closely match the requirements of each specific mission, whilst minimising the required redesign time and associated cost. This concept enables a programmatic approach where the level of a priori design, manufacture, and test of the platform is maximised. The benefits offered by this approach are shown to be the ability of the platform supplier to respond more rapidly and competitively to contract bids, coupled with a significant reduction in spacecraft delivery times.
Modularity as an Enabler for a More Efficient Commercial Small Satellite Program
This paper addresses the key requirements for a commercial small satellite platform, and the specific problems encountered in effectively adapting it to a range of mission types. A modular concept is proposed, which may be reconfigured to more closely match the requirements of each specific mission, whilst minimising the required redesign time and associated cost. This concept enables a programmatic approach where the level of a priori design, manufacture, and test of the platform is maximised. The benefits offered by this approach are shown to be the ability of the platform supplier to respond more rapidly and competitively to contract bids, coupled with a significant reduction in spacecraft delivery times.
