Related Information Abstract submission is closed Abstract Notification March 16, 2010 Please Note The Small Satellite Conference has a "no-paper, no-podium" rule. Only authors whose manuscripts are in the Conference proceedings will be permitted to present at the Conference. Proper approval and clearances are the responsibility of the authors; please plan accordingly.

Connecting the Dots – Bringing Visionaries, System Implementers and Mission Sponsors Together

Over the past 23 years, the AIAA/USU Conference on Small Satellites has been a forum for researchers and technology advocates from government, industry and academia to share new ideas and discuss the important topics of the day in small satellites. The global economic downturn and resultant budget uncertainties worldwide have created an ‘opportunity space’ for small satellite systems to capture a broader acceptance, but in what applications and for what purposes? Today, more than ever, spacecraft system implementers must focus their limited resources on delivering solutions that meet mission and customer needs. At the same time, visionaries must bring their newest ideas and technologies forward to enable future missions. Thus, in the 24th year of this Conference, a direct approach is being taken to connect visionaries, system implementers and mission sponsors together to truly comprehend each other’s needs and capabilities.

In recent years, small satellites have proven their potential in scientific, commercial and military missions. The 24th Annual AIAA/USU Conference on Small Satellites will focus on understanding future mission needs, within the context of small spacecraft system capabilities or limitations, and strive to identify future technological advancements to make these programs successful. For the 2010 Conference we seek stimulating papers that target this general theme with particular focus on one or more of the following session topics:

Demand Side Visionaries A dedicated session for visionaries and mission sponsors to define their critical needs from a system, capability and budgetary perspective for the coming decade.

Mission Enabling Technologies Innovative small satellite technologies (hardware or software) that offer game changing, mission enabling capabilities in next generation small spacecraft.

Mission Payloads Advanced, cutting edge mission related technologies and sensors (not bus sensors) designed specifically with small satellite missions in mind.

The Market in Retrospect Reports on the successes or failures of small satellite missions that have been flown over the last 18 months with an emphasis on lessons learned.

Around the Corner A preview of missions that are scheduled to fly within the next 18 months with an emphasis on the mission and its scientific, technological or military purpose.

From Earth to Orbit Launch systems or launch opportunities that are specifically designed to provide access to space for small satellites.

Spacecraft Systems A session looking at the emerging spacecraft systems engineering of small satellites.

TidBits A session dedicated to CubeSat/NanoSat initiatives that enable future missions.

The Next Generation Recent and planned educational small satellite programs that train a new generation of engineers while benefiting the small satellite community.