Small Spacecraft Technologies
Modular Satellite Architecture
SDL is making breakthrough discoveries in the area of modular satellite architecture. Its main areas of focus are:
Plug-N-Play Software
USU’s Dr. Reyhan Baktur is working with a team of programmers from SDL to develop a plug and play software package that will allow a universal software program to be run on any small satellite with minimal modifications. This new software will greatly reduce the development time for small satellite missions, which will dramatically affect the cost.
Modular Thermal Systems
SDL is proficient in adapting spacecraft thermal control architecture to responsive missions. Using modular satellites, or de-coupling each module function from the system, allows for:
- Module design independence completely unaffected by mission design
- Minimal system impact if a module is replaced
- Late module configuration when producing a new system