The University Nanosat Program from Concept to Flight: A Dual Student Program Perspective on What Works and What Does Not

The University Nanosat Program from Concept to Flight: A Dual Student Program Perspective on What Works and What Does Not

The University Nanosatellite Program of the Air Force Research Laboratory provides a paradigm-changing environment for the leaders of tomorrow’s space industry to envision solutions for today’s small satellites. The products of the Program are an educated, experienced workforce that will meet the demands of tomorrow, along with a spectrum of small satellite technologies onboard student-built nanosatellite flight missions. This paper reveals intangible aspects of the systems engineering and integration process that are usually lacking in new hires. Students involved in the UNP program come out with an experienced perspective well beyond what the current higher education system provides. Examples of success and failure at the university level are presented. Management of technical and programmatic requirements and risks are addressed, including such issues as constricted university budgets and heavy personnel turnover. Quality control and systems engineering methodologies are also discussed. Two separate, concurrent University Nanosatellite Program-sponsored projects will be presented as case studies.