Single Wafer Integrated Femto Satellites (SWIFT)*
Abstract
*Formerly Advanced Nano/Micro-Satellite Technology for Tactical Applications The goal of the Single Wafer Integrated Femto Satellites (SWIFT) program is to demonstrate critically needed technologies enabling a very small (nano- and micro-) satellite constellation for persistent tactical military applications. SWIFT will develop, fabricate, and demonstrate fully functional "femtosat" spacecraft (less than 100 grams) which can enable new missions not currently possible with singular monolithic satellites by means of an adaptable hardware architecture and microfabrication technologies. Swarms of femtosats are ideally suited for distributed missions, such as sparse aperture arrays for remote sensing or fly-around inspectors for larger spacecraft. The U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, intelligence community, and other potential users have identified such small satellites as a potential technical approach for delivering affordable support to the tactical warfighter. By deploying large numbers of very low cost nano-satellites in distributed constellations a persistent effect can be provided to terrestrial forces. Today's technology limits the ability to do this and advances in key areas are needed to make this vision a reality. Specifically, nanosatellites lack sufficient power, communications, propulsion and imaging capacity to address many tactical needs. Key technologies include: deployable communications antennas, crosslink communications, interferometric technologies, small imaging systems, attitude control subsystems, efficient solar electric arrays, efficient maneuver capability, efficient upper stages, and revolutionary manufacturing techniques. The anticipated transition partner is the Air Force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 7d22a2c76bd27111a488988b7b13d293