Small Satellite System for Space Surveillance

BCTs objective is to develop a low earth orbit spacecraft bus suitable for incorporation of an instrument that is capable of detecting and locating near-GEO (geo-synchronous orbit) space objects of apparent visible magnitude 16 Mv or brighter. BCTs technical approach is to leverage our existing Nanosatellite Bus and its XB1 avionics, that are currently being produced for multiple missions, and incorporate features of our FlexCore attitude determination and control system (ADCS) in order to meet the specific mission requirements. The XB1 avionics is a complete miniaturized avionics package for nanosatellites, which includes ADCS, C&DH, EPS, and RF-comm. The BCT FlexCore is an ADCS package that includes larger external reaction wheels and torque rods to support much larger spacecraft, and separate stand-alone star trackers for optimal orientation; By merging the FlexCore with the XB1, we create the FlexBus avionics, which can support a wide range of small satellites, by fitting into a variety of structural configurations, due to its compact size. The BCT spacecraft bus in combination with a program specific instrument shall serve as a pathfinder in assessing the feasibility and affordability of developing a low cost constellation for routine and frequent updates to the GEO catalog.