Report: Large LEO Satellite Constellations: Will it be Different This Time? (McKinsey 2020)

This report indicates that companies planning large LEO satellite internet constellations still need to reduce arange of costs significantly to ensure long-term viability. Lowering launch costs is one part of the equation, but it will be equally or more critical to reduce the cost of manufacturing spacecraft, ground equipment, and user equipment. If suppliers and constellation providers can achieve these cuts, they could unlock enough demand for large LEO constellations to transform both the B2C and B2B communications markets.

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Redefining Space Missions: The Disaggregation of Satellite Functionalities

In the realm of space technology, a significant shift is underway: the disaggregation of satellite functionalities. This approach deconstructs traditional satellite capabilities into smaller, specialized units. It marks a departure from the ‘one satellite, many functions’ principle towards a model where multiple smaller satellites, each dedicated to a specific function, collaborate to accomplish a common mission.

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Extending Satellite Lifespans: Technological Advancements and Their Implications for the Space Economy

In the rapidly evolving landscape of space exploration and satellite technology, one of the most significant advancements lies in increasing the lifespan of satellites. This enhancement, resulting from numerous technological breakthroughs, carries numerous implications, including economic efficiency, environmental impact, and geopolitical ramifications. This article reviews the consequences and the technologies driving these transformative changes.

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VLEO Innovator: Earth Observant Inc.

EOI (Earth Observant Inc.) Space plans to launch a VLEO (Very Low Earth Orbiting) constellation of “ultra high” resolution imaging satellites for both government and commercial use, known as Stingray. By operating in VLEO, the Stingray satellites will be closer to Earth than most other satellites, and will be capable of delivering the highest resolution imagery.

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Report: Large Constellations of Low-Altitude Satellites: A Primer (CBO 2023)

In this report, the Congressional Budget Office provides an introduction to the advantages of and challenges for constellations of low-altitude satellites. In particular, the report describes the effects that orbital altitude has on the design of satellites and constellations of those satellites, focusing on DoD’s Earth-observation and communications missions.

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CubeSat Design Basics: Small Satellites with Big Potential

In an era of increasing access to space and rapid technological advancement, one of the most influential developments in space exploration is the rise of CubeSats. These tiny satellites, often no larger than a loaf of bread, are making space exploration cheaper, faster, and more accessible than ever before. However, the small size of CubeSats presents unique challenges in terms of design. This article reviews the fundamental principles of CubeSat design.

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Time in Space: A Review of Typical Milestones and NET/NLT Designations in Space Projects

Timing is paramount, particularly in the sphere of space exploration. Each mission can be likened to a complex puzzle, requiring each piece to slot perfectly into place for the broader picture to emerge. To ensure all parts align just right, there are two significant types of checkpoints used: ‘No Earlier Than’ (NET) and ‘No Later Than’ (NLT). These terms effectively bracket the ‘earliest’ and ‘latest’ dates for task completion. This article reviews these critical markers relative to their importance in maintaining the timely progression of space missions and ensuring the successful attainment of their objectives.

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The Fusion of Entertainment and the Space Economy

The entertainment industry within the space economy is a multifaceted sector that merges technology, innovation, and creative storytelling to deliver entertaining content related to space activities and exploration. It is an emerging market segment, providing audiences worldwide with an array of experiences and knowledge about the universe beyond our planet. This article explores several key aspects of the space economy’s impact on the entertainment industry.

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First Feature Film Shot in Space Has Been Released: “The Challenge”

The first feature film shot in space was the Russian movie titled “Challenge”. In October 2021, Russian actress Yulia Peresild and director Klim Shipenko traveled to the ISS to shoot scenes for the movie. The plot of “Challenge” involves a surgeon (played by Peresild) who has to operate on a sick cosmonaut in space because the cosmonaut’s medical condition prevents him from returning to Earth to be treated. The movie was released in April 2023.

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