Micro/Nano Satellite Technology, Systems and Components

Dear Colleagues,

We are happy to announce a new MDPI topic on Micro/Nano Satellite Technology, Systems and Components, of which we will be editors.

Miniaturized spacecrafts in the micro- and nano-satellite class (CubeSats, PocketQubes, satellites on a chip, or any other miniaturized format) are represent game-changers in the space mission scenarios. They have contributed to “democratize” access to space, making it easier, faster, cheaper, and, ultimately, open to a much larger group of potential users and operators. The fast progress that has been made in the miniaturization of technologies and components has obviously played a crucial role in this evolution of the space sector. Nowadays, the use of standardized formats and design methods, the simplification of satellite infrastructures, and the availability of a wide variety of off-the shelf components and systems are making it possible to manufacture and operate a working spacecraft at a low cost. Eventually, these miniaturized spacecrafts, which were initially only used just in Academic or demonstration projects, are rapidly extending their range of applications to commercial and, in some cases, even very ambitious deep-space or interplanetary missions.

This Topic aims to host a selection of contributions covering innovative, cross-boundary, advanced developments related to technologies, systems, or components for this class of miniaturized spacecrafts. Any system, sub-system, or specific component of the spacecraft either at the hardware, software or conceptual design level is of interest to this Topic.

Manuscripts presenting original research or state-of-the-art reviews are welcome for submission. Authors are encouraged to submit articles on the analytical, numerical, design, test, or integration activities of micro-/nano-satellite technologies or systems. Proposed papers can either relate to a complete sub-system or specific components of it. Contributions on innovative ideas or concepts are welcome as well as contributions addressing embedded and integrated systems that combine different sub-systems or functions of the spacecraft into a single system.

We look forward to receiving your contributions. 

Prof. Dr. Angelo Cervone
Prof. Dr. Vaios Lappas
Dr. Vittorio Franzese
Topic Editors