Samara University Develops New Control Technology for Picosatellites
The technology could significantly reduce the cost of deploying new satellite constellations.
Young researchers at Samara University have developed a new technology for controlling picosatellites that could eventually lower the cost of deploying new satellite constellations. These ultra-small satellites can be placed in low Earth orbit, at an altitude of about 400 kilometers, to observe a designated area of Earth. Their orientation is controlled by a specialized onboard system that weighs just 40 grams.
The satellites’ orbital trajectories and relative velocities can be adjusted by changing their orientation and, consequently, the atmospheric drag they experience in the upper atmosphere. This allows the satellites to passively adjust their relative positions and maintain the desired configuration within a constellation, without using propulsion. The approach is significantly less expensive than conventional orbital control methods, which use onboard thrusters to change a satellite’s orbit.
The researchers have completed the design of the picosatellites’ structural components and the CubeSat carrier and have begun assembling the spacecraft. Assembly is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
