Small satellites for the benefit of developing countries

• Published in: Acta astronautica 2003-05, Vol.52 (9), p.687-690
• Main Author: Othman, Mazlan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0094-5765; 1879-2030
• DOI: 10.1016/S0094-5765(03)00038-9

Small satellites are becoming increasingly important in the context of capacity building in space technology for developing countries. The use of commercial off-the-shelf technologies and focus on specific missions can speed up the development process, providing faster as well as cheaper access to space. Only small groups of engineers in universities and government agencies are needed to execute a programme and this overcomes the problem of limited human resources. These engineers can get involved in the entire life cycle of the satellite, thereby facilitating and maximizing technology transfer. As capability in space is becoming a more essential means to solving many earthly problems, such as resource management and environmental problems, the United Nations is convinced that small satellites provide an excellent vehicle for developed countries to bridge the gap between technology have and have-nots in space, while at the same time responding to the call to ensure space benefits all humanity.