Small Satellite Solutions From Scotland

MICROSAT BLITZ

The recent ESA Internet Satellite, SSETI Express, experienced power problems.

Clyde, Scotland (SPX) Jan 12, 2006
Clyde Space are offering the growing ranks of small satellite manufacturers power subsystem solutions for their missions. Based in purpose built facilities on West of Scotland Science Park in Glasgow, Clyde Space has a range of power subsystems for missions from as little as 1W up to in excess of 2.5kW.

"For most spacecraft manufacturers, the prospect of producing a reliable, yet affordable power system for their mission is a non-trivial problem", says Craig Clark, Managing Director of Clyde Space. Craig, formerly the Head of Power Systems at Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, has over 11 years experience providing power systems for small satellites on over 20 missions.

"Some non-traditional spacecraft manufacturers, such as Universities, are finding out the importance of a well designed power system the hard-way. Some of these missions are seeing on-orbit power system failures... The power system may not be the sexiest electrical subsystem on-board the spacecraft and therefore may not be receiving the attention it deserves."

Clyde Space recognises the importance of the small satellite industry, and its relevance to the future of space exploitation, exploration and as a teaching tool. They believe that, by applying their mission and design experience, the Clyde Space team are able to provide solutions to meet the varying needs of customers.

"For example, we are in the process of developing a very low-cost power system and battery for CubeSats using the PC/104 format, whilst at the same time are preparing to supply a 5kW regulated power system for the telecommunications market."

The power subsystems offered by Clyde Space have unrivalled heritage within the small satellite community, flying on over 25 missions.

Clyde Space is Scotland's first indigenous space company and is proud to carry on the Scottish tradition of innovative, reliable engineering.

MICROSAT BLITZ

New NASA Satellites Shipped To Launch Site

Vandenberg AFB CA (SPX) Dec 28, 2005
NASA 's Space Technology 5 (ST5) micro-satellites have arrived at the Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., launch site and are in the beginning stages of final launch preparation. ST5 is scheduled to launch in February 2006.