SMALL SATELLITES IN RUSSIA AND IN THE WORLD - CURRENT STATUS

The advantages of using small satellites in both scientific and technological activities are discussed. These relatively cheap satellites are characterized by a mass from one kilogram up to several hundred kilograms, dimensions under 1 meter and a relatively simple set of scientific and auxiliary equipment. They can be orbited as piggy-back with a main satellite, by a low-power launcher, or by a multiple-launch spacecraft. The small satellite projects under development in the world are considered. Special attention is given to Russian projects and their launching possibilities. The most commonly used attitude control systems (ACS) for small satellites are highlighted. A majority of Russian small satellites are equipped with a gravity gradient ACS. The ACS of the universal small space platform, a typical small satellite with mass about 60 kg, is discussed in detail. The platform is being developed as a universal commercial satellite.