Low-Cost/Robust Nanosatellite Spacecraft for Distributed, Communication Systems Constellations

"The SBIR Phase I work uncovered that the most expensive and challenging aspects of multi-satellite projects are the ability to build and test the satellites in a simulated environment that provides a high fidelity validation in a distributedtest-like-you-fly environment at a reasonable cost. Expanding on three of the four elements investigated during Phase I, ASI will construct components that can be used in conjunction with Test Bed and Spacecraft development to validate and verifyformation flying on-board and ground based algorithms. ASI will continue the development of multi-satellite ground system architectures and data flows, internet based ground data systems, and satellite constellation operations concepts. The developmentof these concepts will allow the development of two inter-related products, a Dynamic Space Simulator (DSS), and a Distributed Web Based Data Delivery System (WebDDS)."