The NSF Small Satellite Workshop Background NSF is
The NSF Small Satellite Workshop Background NSF is considering establishing a program for small satellites for space weather research Fact finding workshop first step May 15 17, 2007 at George Mason University, VA Purpose To explore the possibilities and benefits of utilizing small satellite missions to provide essential measurements for space weather and atmospheric research Participation About 150 participants from academia, government (DOD, NASA, NSF), and private aerospace industry NSF Small Satellite Workshop Preliminary Report, May 2007
Scope of the Workshop Topics Launch opportunities for small spacecraft Innovative technology developments for small satellite systems Miniaturization of scientific payloads Advancing research by means of measurements from small satellites Key space weather needs that can be satisfied by small satellite observations Using small satellites as an educational tool for science and engineering NSF Small Satellite Workshop Preliminary Report, May 2007
Some Main Findings It is feasible Scientific satellite missions in the $1 M $10 M range (incl. launch) are possible It will advance space weather research Such missions can help fill important observational gaps They will inspire the development of new experimental methods and technology It has Educational benefits Such missions play a crucial role in training the next generation of experimental space scientists and aerospace engineers. The main obstacle is access to space! While launches and launch opportunities are plentiful, securing regular, low cost access to space for small scientific payloads is non trivial NSF Small Satellite Workshop Preliminary Report, May 2007
Developing a NSF Satellite Program Supporting Space Weather Next steps Inventory current and future space weather observational capabilities and needs to identify gaps that can be filled using pico , nano , and micro satellites Solicit ideas in the form of pre proposals or white papers (providing specific guid ance on cost and technical constraints) Establish partnerships with other government agencies and private industry to secure a series of regular, low cost launches Construct a 5 to 10 year program based on responses to solicitation and conduct annual proposal competitions consistent with programmatic plans and space weather goals The goal: A continual program of $5 M $10 M per year To advance space weather and atmospheric research and education through development, building, launch, operation, and data analysis of small scientific satellite missions NSF Small Satellite Workshop Preliminary Report, May 2007
Partnering: Seeking the Help of Launch Providers Short term Cubesats (and derivatives) likely to be the first technical focus We need to secure regular (at least 2/year), low cost PPOD launches for the program, starting 2009 Future Exploring other Secondary Payload options Exploring cheap dedicated launches Information and Contact http: //virbo. org/wiki/index. php/SSW Therese Moretto Jorgensen tjorgens@nsf. gov NSF Small Satellite Workshop Preliminary Report, May 2007
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