Small Satellites Project Group

Small Satellites Project Group

Over the past few years, small satellites have changed the landscape of space missions.

Small satellites are opening the door for spacecraft manufacturers and operators to test novel methods and technologies, which are either not possible or extremely difficult with traditional larger systems; for instance, open source hardware, software, and formation flying.

They facilitate quicker, more cost-effective and reliable access to space and data products. This have encouraged new actors to develop their capabilities in the space domain: from small spacecrafts, to Earth-spanning constellations of thousands of satellites. Many universities have launched their own CubeSats, and we have seen the emergence of constellations that provide complete and near-constant global coverage. Downstream, data products that were previously impossible to collect with a single large satellite are enabling applications from climate change monitoring to poverty index measurements, and are even combating human trafficking. It is for these reasons, among others, that small satellites are considered an industry disruptive technology by numerous space mission experts.

The SGAC recognizes the impact that small satellite systems are having in the space industry. Welcome to the Small Satellites Project Group (SSPG) ! The place where we believe that sharing and propelling the benefits of Small Satellites technologies can improve our lives and the world around us.

 

Vision

“To create an international and interdisciplinary forum focused on different aspects of the growing small satellite industry; to promote the application of small satellite systems, technologies, and products to the betterment of both humanity and the natural world.”

Objectives

In order to promote their use, the SSPG aims to educate its members about small satellites through research projects, and also to connect people interested in small satellites across the globe. This gives rise to the main SSPG objectives:

  1. Provide career and project assistance for young professionals and students already active in the small satellite community.
  2. Provide the small satellite community with up-to-date information on relevant topics, as well as recommendations regarding the directions to be taken for future research and development and/or policy and legal issues.
  3. Attract young professionals and students to the world of small satellites and more generally to the world of space exploration.

How to collaborate?

The project group is structured into two branches: research groups and communication’s team.

The research groups are dedicated to conducting research activities in the field of small satellite applications while the communication’s team aims to increase the engagement of volunteers and spread knowledge about the SSPG and small satellite systems in general.

If you are willing to contribute with an international network and proactively share your talent, the SSPG is open to hear the projects you would be interested in participating or starting.

  • Be part of an international network of young small sats enthusiasts
  • Collaborate in multidisciplinary projects
  • Discover opportunities to position your work on Conferences and Events
  • Gain experience as a volunteer

Project Group Co-Leads