This proximity to the Earth provides a handful of advantages, including better positioning for capturing images, contacting the satellite, and allowing for a more straightforward deorbit process (the atmospheric drag that pulls the satellite into the atmosphere, causing it to burn up). Satellites in LEO have altitudes as high as a couple thousand kilometers. The orbit on which a satellite is placed is dependent on the satellite’s mission, but the most common orbit for smallsats is Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Without access to frequent images and information collected through our constellations of smallsats, we would not be able to identify, analyze and deliver timely insights. Constellations-groups of satellites working together as a system-are enabling new technologies and applications, including BlackSky’s global monitoring service. Smallsats are significantly more cost effective than larger spacecraft and easier to produce, making them better suited for constellations. We are seeing smallsats execute revolutionary missions that are changing the way we see our planet, enabling us to leverage space for continued research and exploration. Similar to computers during the technology revolution, satellites continue to shrink in size however, their capabilities are becoming more effective as technology advances. The CubeSat is then defined by the numbers of units, such as 6U or six units. A CubeSat is made up of units – one unit is a 10x10x10 cm cube. Minisatellites are spacecraft with a mass of 100-500 kgs.ĬubeSats are the only class of smallsats with a more clearly defined standard. Microsatellites are spacecraft with a mass of 10-100 kgs. Nanosatellites are spacecraft with a mass of 1-10 kgs.
Within this category there are several classifications of smallsats.
While there is no official or established standard for a smallsat, the term typically refers to spacecraft with a mass of less than 500 kg, though some within the industry consider the threshold to be less. Part of that shift is the growing use and advancement of small satellites (smallsats). Here on planet Earth, we are on the brink of a massive shift in the space industry, where the growing commercialization and democratization of space are bringing new information with incredible uses to every industry, from energy and agriculture, to finance, government, human rights, defense and more.
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