Session
Session 9: Space Access
Abstract
Over the next ten years, more than 6000 SmallSats are expected to launch worldwide, an over six-fold increase from the previous decade. As the SmallSat market grows, launch remains the primary bottleneck to timely and affordable access to space. Just as the CubeSat form factor standardized the launch interface for CubeSats and allowed an ecosystem to flourish, SmallSat standards for satellites between 12U and ESPA-class size could have the same revolutionary impact on the industry. This paper explores the benefits of defining a “Launch Unit” standard for medium-class (25-200 kilogram) SmallSats and provides options for its development. Unlike the CubeSat standard that was generated around a new design, the Launch Unit standard takes into account existing and evolving launch options, existing separation systems, and examples of commercially available platforms that could fit into this standard. The Launch Unit standard would address the physical properties of the SmallSat (mass, volume, vibrational modes) as well as the mechanical and electrical interfaces to the launch vehicle for both large and small launch vehicles.
Setting the Standard: Recommendations on "Launch Unit" Standard SmallSat Sizes between CubeSats and ESPA-Class
Over the next ten years, more than 6000 SmallSats are expected to launch worldwide, an over six-fold increase from the previous decade. As the SmallSat market grows, launch remains the primary bottleneck to timely and affordable access to space. Just as the CubeSat form factor standardized the launch interface for CubeSats and allowed an ecosystem to flourish, SmallSat standards for satellites between 12U and ESPA-class size could have the same revolutionary impact on the industry. This paper explores the benefits of defining a “Launch Unit” standard for medium-class (25-200 kilogram) SmallSats and provides options for its development. Unlike the CubeSat standard that was generated around a new design, the Launch Unit standard takes into account existing and evolving launch options, existing separation systems, and examples of commercially available platforms that could fit into this standard. The Launch Unit standard would address the physical properties of the SmallSat (mass, volume, vibrational modes) as well as the mechanical and electrical interfaces to the launch vehicle for both large and small launch vehicles.
