Dutch Micro Systems Technology for the Next Generation of Small Satellites

Advanced microelectronics and Micro Systems Technology (MST) enable an increased functional performance of small satellites with decreased demands on mass, size and power. The research and development cluster MISAT stimulates the design and development of advanced small satellite platforms based on MST aiming at innovative space and terrestrial applications. Focus of research and development is on MST-based bus and payload components as well as on satellite architecture and distributed systems in space. MISAT is part of the Dutch MicroNed program which has established a microsystems infrastructure to fully exploit the MST knowledge chain involving public and industrial partners alike. Rapid in-orbit demonstration of MST onboard satellites is an accompanying objective of the research cluster. To that end, the first satellite to demonstrate technologies developed within MISAT is the Delfi-C3 nano-satellite of the Delft University of Technology. The satellite will demonstrate, from 2008 onwards, operations of the next generation of Sun sensors, power subsystems and satellite architecture technology.