CubeSats are mini satellites that have a fraction of the mass and cost of their more traditional, larger cousins.
Initially, CubeSats were developed as educational tools, but today CubeSats are more frequently used in orbit for technology demonstration, scientific studies, and commerce.
CubeSats are even being used for providing telecommunication and internet services. CubeSats can be used to provide internet connectivity by acting as a bridge between ground stations and other satellites in the network.
CubeSats are especially useful for providing internet access in remote or hard-to-reach locations. This is especially cost effective because CubeSats can provide internet to a region with an investment in pricey terrestrial infrastructure.
Also, CubeSats are now commonly being used to provide low-cost mobile phone coverage in areas where terrestrial networks are expensive or unavailable. This has also been advantageous to consumers in remote areas to stay connected and access the internet.
CubeSats are typically deployed in a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 500 to 2000 kilometers, allowing them to provide coverage to a large area. In 2023, CubeSats provide point-to-point communication or broadcast services, such as voice and video.
Another popular usage for CubeSats is to transfer data, including the transmission of images and other data, such as weather information.
Additionally, CubeSats can be used to provide internet connectivity by acting as a bridge between ground stations and other satellites in the network.
The immense promise of CubeSat technology has created an explosion in new ideas and initiatives. For example, under NASA’s Artemis program, a CubeSat will be an important tool as humans return to the moon.
A CubeSat positioned over the moon’s darkest craters is expected to act as a kind of flashlight to better explore previously unchartered moon features.
Want to learn more? Tonex offers Introduction to CubeSat, a 2-day course covering the basic concepts and processes for CubeSat analysis, design and developments. Participants will learn about the CubeSats or miniature satellites that have been used exclusively in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), and can be used for exploring and interplanetary missions.
Please contact us for more information.