Skip to main content

Technology for Small Spacecraft (1994) / Chapter Skim
Currently Skimming:

Executive Summary
Pages 1-5

The Chapter Skim interface presents what we've algorithmically identified as the most significant single chunk of text within every page in the chapter.
Select key terms on the right to highlight them within pages of the chapter.


From page 1...
... plans for a new small spacecraft technology development program; review NASA's current technology program and priorities for relevance to small spacecraft, launch vehicles for small spacecraft, and small spacecraft ground operations; examine small spacecraft technology programs of other government agencies; assess technology efforts in industry that are relevant to small spacecraft, launch vehicles, and ground operations; and identify technology gaps and overlaps and prioritize areas in which greater investments are likely to have high payoff, considering the current and projected budgets, the NASA mission statement (see Appendix A) , and the needs of industries that utilize space.
Read the entire page →
From page 3...
... The recommendations, in general, address technology development programs rather than generic research activities. However, the pane!
Read the entire page →
From page 4...
... In order to gain maximum potential from these high specific impulse systems, a high electric power level is required. Advanced technology in solar-generated power could supply the required power levels with array sizes and weights compatible with small spacecraft.
Read the entire page →
From page 5...
... Advances in miniaturization of electronic devices have the potential to increase the payload mass fraction, lower the spacecraft weight, reduce the power requirements, and reduce overall cost. These devices can be combined to form highly capable systems for remote sensing, guidance and control, communications, and on-board operations.
Read the entire page →

Key Terms

  • spacecraft technology
  • hybrid propulsion
  • development activity
  • orbit determination
  • payload mass

  • using gps
  • generic research
  • ground operations
  • launch trajectory
  • mass fraction

  • trajectory monitoring
  • electronic devices
  • ground testing
  • mission operations
  • transfer times

  • electric propulsion
  • reduce cost
  • mission statement
  • performed using
  • conventional solid

  • extensive intermediate
  • spacecraft launch
  • attract talented
  • devices combined
  • key space

  • mission technologies
  • reduce overall
  • techniques enable
  • mission goals
  • precision guidance


    • This material may be derived from roughly machine-read images, and so is provided only to facilitate research.
    More information on Chapter Skim is available.