Small-Satellite Trending and Reliability 2009-2018

O'Donnell, Kara A., The Aerospace Corp.; Richardson, Gregory G., The Aerospace Corp.

doi:10.1117/3.2618157.ch4

Book: The Nanosatellite Revolution: 30 Years and Continuing

Editor(s): Henry Helvajian; Siegfried W. Janson

Author(s): Kara O'Donnell, Gregory Richardson

Published: 2023

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.2618157.ch4

Author Affiliations +

Abstract

This chapter will quantify trends in small-satellite utilization, reliability, and capability using a database of all small satellites (,500 kg) launched from 2009 through 2018. By analyzing the full small-satellite industry over time, this chapter will identify trends in implementation, success rates, and the reasons why some missions have failed. It will also address how to improve future missions to maintain the benefits of the lower cost space element while still achieving complex, multidimensional missions.