MightySat I: Technology in Space for About a Nickel ($M) Presenter Information

MightySat is a United States Air Force (USAF) Phillips Laboratory (PL) multi-mission, small satellite program dedicated to providing frequent, inexpensive, on-orbit demonstrations of high payoff space system technologies. PL is the USAF center for space technology research & development. MightySat platforms provide the on-orbit "lab bench" for responsively testing emerging technologies to ensure their readiness for operational Air Force missions. This paper focuses on the MightySat I vehicle, developed largely by CTA Space Systems (CTASS) in McLean, VA. MightySat I, also 150 lb satellite designed for ejection from the Space Shuttle, is now in final integration and testing just 15 months after contract award and at a total project cost of about $5M. Details of the spacecraft bus design, integration, testing, and issues associated with Shuttle compatibility are discussed. The development and integration of the advanced technology payloads for MightySat I (high-efficiency solar panels, low-power microelectronics, low-shock release devices, lightweight composite structure, and micro-particle impact detectors) are described. Strategies for space vehicle integration & test and mission operations are addressed. A brief summary of upcoming MightySat II satellites (275 Ib vehicles) and missions is also provided.