Cubesat Launch and Deployment Best Practices Side Event

As the popularity of cubesats grows, so too does the rate at which they are being launched into space. Cubesats are being placed into orbit as secondary payloads, riding alongside one or many other satellites, and also being deployed from platforms such as the International Space Station (ISS). Cubesats are also being deployed in larger numbers at the same time, such as the 104 total satellites deployed from a single Indian space launch in late 2016, including 88 cubesats in the same constellation. These new developments create potential challenges for ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities, including reducing the potential for on-orbit collisions and following international space debris mitigation guidelines.

This meeting, held in conjunction with the 2017 SmallSat Conference in Logan, Utah, provided participants with best practices from launch providers, satellite operators, and providers of space situational awareness (SSA) data to help increase the safety and sustainability of cubesat launches. 

Speakers

Ms. Diana McKissock, SSA Sharing Lead, 18th Space Control Squadron; Presentation

Mr. Conor Brown, Senior Mission Manager, NanoRacks; Presentation

Mr. James Mason, VP for Mission Operations, Planet; Presentation

For more information, please contact Dr. Brian Weeden.