Getting The Skinny On Mega Vs. Micro Satellite Technology

It might be worth mentioning that the number of space satellites is growing. They are becoming easier and cheaper to send into orbit. With this expansion, comes many new possibilities to both individuals and companies looking to expand their business. This door has opened and extends an invitation to the numerous organizations, universities as well as companies that had to wait in line to tap into these sources.

There are different sizes of satellites out there. Those that are termed small weigh less 330 pounds. A nanosatellite would weigh less than just 22 pounds while a picosatellite just weighs under 2.2 pounds. Since 2003 the most common micro-satellite is the Cube-Sat. It weighs under 2.9 pounds and is only a 3.9 inch cube.

There is no hiding the difference in the tiny satellites and the giants being used the science and communications industries. Big really does mean just that; big. They are comparable to a average size vehicle, with weigh that would make a featherweight gasp for air. From drawing board to unveiling takes some major bucks in cost and many stages including time frames to make this dream happen on schedule.

Taking such a long time to build and implement something means a slow down on new technology. The new small satellites are growing in leaps and bounds technologically. They are growing in the same way with the same types of technological advances as computers and smart phones. Many universities are using these for increased amounts of experiments. It is possible now to do a lot with small things because of the growth of nano-technology.

Even getting these tiny satellites launched out into orbit is getting much easier and less expensive. It doesn't take endlessly deep pockets to get a CubeSat and then have it sent out with a nano launcher. With the world of satellites opening up in this way there will likely be many more companies that are able to use them which will in turn create more competition and even more technological advances for people to use and grow with.