Master of Space Studies 2001 Views and Visions

Abstract

This paper presents the work of ISU’s current class of 38 Master of Space Studies students which comprises the two-part ISU Team Project. Part I of this Team Project, concluded in December 2000, involved a comprehensive review of the literature concerning small satellites. Part II begins with this Symposium and will consume the class for the following 8 weeks. This paper presents a summary of Part I and visions for the future of small satellites by describing the path for Part II.

“The International Space University’s Small Satellite Interdisciplinary Survey” (ISIS) presents an overview of small satellites, and addresses their role in today’s world. Its intercultural, international and interdisciplinary focus covers commercial and political trends, and addresses five categories of applications with their necessary enabling engineering challenges. “The Proposal for International Spacecraft Constellation for Education and Science” (PISCES) was chosen by the MSS6 class as the Part II project. It involves the design of a Mars-bound small spacecraft and the construction of an international competition to engage space enthusiasts worldwide in a joint space science mission.