Canisterized Satellite Development for Operationally Responsive Space

ABSTRACT: As a baseline design and with the lessons learned from the EDU built for the Phase I effort, fabricate, test and flight validate a family of proof-of-concept of Canisterized Satellite Dispensers (CSD) based on a common core. This family will include a 1/4U, 3U, 6U and 12U. A 1U is as much as 2.3Kg in mass and is 10x10x10 cm in dimension. Simultaneously, make CSDs very useful to the end-users and launch services by substantially reducing weight, cost, procurement time and increasing ease of use. Write a detailed user"s manual that thoroughly details capabilities and how the CSDs will be used. All the CSDs will be lighter and smaller that competitive design. As a first option, design, build, test and flight validate an Isolated, Rotary Wafer (IRW). Based on the 38.81 inch bolt circle payload interface common to all US unmanned launch vehicles, this 10 inch tall wafer would encapsulate and dispense payloads contained in the CSDs. It would reside between the final stage an the primary payload allowing each launch to attain a greater utility. It would incorporate an vibration isolation system allowing both the primary and secondary payloads a substantial and useful reduction in launch environment loading. BENEFIT: An inexpensive, broadly useful Canisterized Satellites dispensers (CSD) to be flown as secondary payloads on a wide range of manned and unmanned launch vehicles and from within other larger satellites. A substantial increase in the performance of CSDs. A variation in CSDs that are both smaller and larger than currently available. A demonstrated capability that convinces launch service providers of safety and of the low risk of CSDs on their larger missions.