How small satellites are leading to big leaps in space

This trend toward small satellites, or smallsats, has opened new opportunities for scientific research, Earth observation, telecommunications, and commercial applications in space, making space more accessible than before.

Small satellites have surged in the last decade

Satellite miniaturization has progressed substantially in recent years as electronic components have become smaller and more powerful. Improvements and size reductions in sensors, processors, communication and interconnect systems have been instrumental in these advancements.

High-performance, low-power microprocessors and memory devices enable onboard data processing and storage capabilities. Enhanced power management systems and energy-efficient components allow for extended mission durations and improved functionality.

There are several other key reasons for this transition in the satellite industry, including:

• Cost: Smaller and lighter satellites are cheaper to build and launch compared to heavier satellites. This cost efficiency has only been made better as the cost to launch a pound of payload into space has steadily decreased in the last 10 years or so from around $30,000 per pound with the Space Shuttle program to around $5,000-$10,000 per pound. As a result, satellites have become much more accessible to both countries and organizations.
• With their compact size and lower mass, smallsats require less expensive launch vehicles and can be deployed as secondary payloads on larger missions. Furthermore, the use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, standardized interfaces, and streamlined manufacturing processes has led to cost savings throughout the development and deployment phases.
• Weight savings: The weight savings offered by smallsats have played a pivotal role in their widespread adoption. While heavier satellites require larger and more expensive rockets, smallsats can be launched using smaller and cheaper rockets which can significantly reduce the overall cost of a space mission.
• Improved Launch Systems: The emergence of dedicated smallsat launch vehicles and rideshare opportunities has lowered the barriers to access space. Launch providers have developed cost-effective solutions for deploying smallsats into orbit, allowing for more frequent and affordable access to space for small satellite developers.
• Satellite Swarms and Formation Flying: Smallsat constellations and formation flying missions have gained prominence. Advances in guidance, navigation, and control systems enable coordinated operations of multiple smallsats, leading to improved data collection, coverage, and collaborative missions.

Interconnect components in small satellite systems must be light and compact. They must be optimized for weight and size while also maintaining their ability to withstand the extremely harsh environments of space.

The pinnacle of lightweight, ruggedized circular connectors

At 25-50% lighter and 20% smaller than a D38999 Series III, the Series Five is the optimal interconnect solution for satellites and space applications where weight and space are constrained.

Series Five connectors are available in several configurations. One such configuration is Amphenol Aerospace’s High Temperature Series Five, which is designed with high-heat materials and can withstand extremely hot temperatures while sustaining a ruggedized connection. These specialty interconnects are optimal for use near engines, firewalls, and other sources of extreme heat.

Visit the Series V Lightweight Military Connectors and High Temperature Series Five product pages for more information.