Cubesat

CubeSat is a type of space satellite with dimensions of 10x10x10 centimeter, weighing roughly 1 kilogram and typically using off-the-shelf electronic components. Currently, several universities around the world are actively developing CubeSats. With its relatively small size, CubeSats can be made and launched for an estimated $65,000 to $80,000 (2004 dollars). Most CubeSats carry one or two scientific instruments as its primary mission. A few CubeSat projects have a limited propulsion system, for example the CubeSat project of the University of Illinois uses an array of small ion thrusters.

Launch history

On June 30th, 2003, 5 university CubeSats were launched on a Rockot Rocket from Russia’s Plesetsk launch site. The launch was executed by Eurockot Launch Services GmbH of Bremen, Germany.