A Modular Satellite Bus Architecture to Enable Rapid Configuration and On-Orbit Servicing

"A modular satellite platform that is capable of achieving rapid, easily configurable and low cost mission objectives has been a goal of the space industry for many years. The ability to design a flexible modular spacecraft platform that can supportmultiple mission variations can achieve the following results:¿ Reduced integration and testing time¿ Accommodate a wide range of payload/avionics modules¿ Reduced non recurring costs¿ Improved quality and product consistencyAeroAstro has explored the feasibility of a modular building block concept with their SBIR Phase I SpaceFrame effort. This work has demonstrated the feasibility of using a building block approach to achieve spacecraft modular platform design objectives.A modular platform design will be used on AeroAstro's SPORT (Small payload Orbit Transfer) Vehicle. The SPORT vehicle will benefit from the versatility offered by the SpaceFrame block approach, and will demonstrate the commercial viability of thistechnology."