Is it really that hard to get your hardware into space?

摘要

Small satellite developers should be encouraged by the fact that reasonably priced access to space is not really the hurdle that it is often perceived to be. An analysis of the small satellites launched in recent years by their sub-classes and annual rates of launches demonstrates that small satellites launch opportunities are widely available, and that a range of methods are utilised including dedicated, shared or piggy-back launch.Based on experience with a wide range of small satellite launches, it is illustrated how many of the perceived barriers to launching small satellites can be overcome. In particular with regard to affordable launch cost, which is commonly considered one of the major hurdles in the small satellite community.The methods for small satellite launch are considered, and a statistical analysis is performed to show that, at a macroscopic scale, there are plenty of launch opportunities, and a significant number of small satellites would be launched with minimum expenditures if an approach to a choice of launch method, launch vehicle type and launch operator will be done in a correct manner. Certain recommendations for a realisation of this approach, including proposed empirical criteria are given