What is a CubeSat?

Uploaded on February 14, 2019

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What is a CubeSat?

2019-02-14 - Do you know what a CubeSat is, and have you heard of the Canadian CubeSat Project? Watch this video to learn more. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)

Cloé Mireault-Lecourt: Hi. I'm Cloé Mireault-Lecourt, undergrad student in electrical engineering at the Université de Sherbooke.

Do you know what a CubeSat is? It's a miniature satellite that measures 10 cm on each side and weighs about 1 kg. Here's a model. As you can see, it's so small that you can hold it in your hand. Beyond their size CubeSats are popular because they are simple. They're not too expensive and can be built quickly. CubeSats are seen as a game-changer since they make space more accessible.

What are its main benefits? CubeSat can be used on its own or can be stacked with others to form a more powerful unit. It's also very versatile. A CubeSat can be used for four different types of missions; instrument testing, scientific research through experiments, commercial usage and educational projects.

How is a CubeSat launched into space? CubeSats can be launched from a rocket or it can be deployed from the international space station. Like any other satellites it can be flown alone or part of a constellation.

Can Canadian students build CubeSats? Many educational projects are available to students, giving them the opportunity to be involved in a real space mission. I'm currently participating in the Canadian CubeSat Project developed by the Canadian Space Agency. 15 student teams from across Canada are developing their own miniature satellites, which will be deployed from the international space station. To follow our progress, visit the Canadian Space Agency website.

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