Nanosatellites are small artificial satellites with a mass between 1 and 10 kg. They are cost-effective, can be carried on larger launches, and offer redundancy and potential for a swarm of satellites. The term was introduced by NASA in 2004 and has nothing to do with nanotechnology. One of the first uses was for Mini AERCam, a nanosatellite used to inspect the exterior of a larger vehicle. Research in the area is limited, but there are signs of recognition of their potential.
Nanosatellites, also called “nanosates”, are a relatively recent term used to describe artificial satellites with a mass between 1 and 10 kg (2.2-22 lbs). Larger satellites are often called microsatellites, while smaller satellites are called picosatellites. The term “nanosatellite” appears to have been introduced by NASA around 2004. It is still being adopted, as many satellites of this size are simply called “small satellites.”
The idea of a nanosatellite has absolutely nothing to do with nanotechnology, a term which refers to the precise engineering of materials at the atomic and molecular scale. From a nanoscale perspective, a 5 kg satellite looks like Mt. Everest. Nanosatellites are attractive because their small size makes them cost effective and opens up the potential for a swarm of satellites. They can be carried on larger launches, avoiding the need for a dedicated launch. From a military point of view, a nanosatellite can be useful because of the redundancy it could offer. Its small size could also help it avoid detection.
One of the first uses of the term “nanosatellite” was by NASA in reference to their Miniature Autonomous Extravehicular Robotic Camera (Mini AERCam) satellites about the size of a volleyball, weighing about ten pounds. The purpose of this nanosatellite, which is still being tested, is to be launched from a larger vehicle and used for the purpose of inspecting the exterior of a larger vehicle without the need for a risky spacewalk. The value of such safety systems is extremely obvious, as Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart during re-entry in February 2003, killing all seven crew members. This accident could have been avoided if the shuttle’s heat shield had been examined more closely before re-entry.
As crucial electronic components like cameras become more miniaturized, nanosatellites become possible. Research in the area of nanosatellites is limited today, as most space companies and universities focus on larger satellites, but there are signs that many are recognizing the potential of nanosatellites and conducting innovative research on them.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
