Scientists develop tiny satellites
Scientists develop tiny satellites
2008-09-29Newsfeed
A tiny, cheap satellite that could collect readings from electricity and gas meters may be brought into widespread use after scientists announced plans to commercially produce the devices.
A tiny, cheap satellite that could collect readings from electricity and gas meters may be brought into widespread use after scientists announced plans to commercially produce the devices.
The CubeSat, which has sides measuring just 10cm and weighs 1kg, has traditionally been a cheap way for universities to research outer space.
The devices can be constructed with readily available electronic components and are launched by piggy-backing on to larger satellites when they take off.
Researchers from the University of Strathclyde have now teamed up with Glasgow space firm Clyde Space to develop an advanced version of the tiny satellites, which will be about a thousand times cheaper than their larger counterparts.
Mechanical engineer Professor Colin McInnes, who is involved in the project, said the devices could collect readings "from things like gas meters or electricity meters" and could also gather data from remote locations such as wind farms.
He added the project was still at the research stage, with the group having been awarded funding for two years from the Science and Technology Facilities Council.
Copyright � The Press Association 2008
