The Challenges and Benefits of Increasing Small Satellite Constellations Capacity
Presentation Type
Paper (supporting PowerPoints may be added as Additional Files)
Location
Henderson Welcome Center
Start Date
16-1-2018 9:30 AM
End Date
16-1-2018 10:45 AM
Abstract
Since the early 2000s, small satellites have advanced at an astonishing rate and continue to do so today. However, as the familiarity with small sats increases and their cost decreases, companies are proposing the eventual launch of “mega” constellations ranging from 100-1000 small sats. These increasing constellations bring with them many challenges. Such as, high failure rates, space situational awareness, control complications, and increasing the already risky endeavor of spaceflight. This paper will seek to define the challenges of increasing the capacity of small satellite constellations, their technological problems, the benefits from this endeavor, and how this increase is continuing to drive innovation within the industry from small to large contenders alike.
Biographies
The Challenges and Benefits of Increasing Small Satellite Constellations Capacity
Henderson Welcome Center
Since the early 2000s, small satellites have advanced at an astonishing rate and continue to do so today. However, as the familiarity with small sats increases and their cost decreases, companies are proposing the eventual launch of “mega” constellations ranging from 100-1000 small sats. These increasing constellations bring with them many challenges. Such as, high failure rates, space situational awareness, control complications, and increasing the already risky endeavor of spaceflight. This paper will seek to define the challenges of increasing the capacity of small satellite constellations, their technological problems, the benefits from this endeavor, and how this increase is continuing to drive innovation within the industry from small to large contenders alike.
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