By 
November 15th, 2017
Credit: NASA
Keep an eye on a trio of CubeSats – tiny satellites that are expected to make a big impact on future space missions.
The Optical Communications and Sensor Demonstration (OCSD) project uses a pair of CubeSats to explore data transmission to the ground via ultra-small lasers, and is also tasked to maneuver the diminutive spacecraft to up-close proximity.
The Optical Communications and Sensor Demonstration (OCSD) project uses a pair of CubeSats to explore data transmission to the ground via ultra-small lasers, and is also tasked to maneuver the diminutive spacecraft to up-close proximity.
Credit: The Aerospace Corporation
Antenna test
Also set for space is the Integrated Solar Array and Reflectarray Antenna (ISARA) mission. It will showcase a pioneering ability to increase downlink data rates for CubeSats thanks to a novel antenna array design that utilizes printed circuit board patches.
The Integrated Solar Array and Reflectarray Antenna (ISARA) mission. It will showcase a pioneering ability to increase downlink data rates for CubeSats thanks to a novel antenna array design that utilizes printed circuit board patches.
Credit: NASA/JPL
Both are onboard the S.S. Gene Cernan supply ship that is now docked to the International Space Station. OCSD and ISARA are to be deployed from the supply vessel after it undocks from the station.
Resources
A detailed update on OCSD/ISARA can be found here:
https://www.nasa.gov/spacetech/feature/CubeSat_Missions_Pushing_Boundaries_of_Technology
Posted in Space News
