GPS, Galileo, and nanotechnology: A cost-effective satellite technology?

The prospects of cost-effective Earth observation missions, using the global positioning system (GPS) and Galileo satellites (GIOVE-A and GIOVE-B) and associated telemetry designs, are migrating toward economical satellites, operational ground stations, efficient data distribution structure, and qualitative space system management. The concept of application specific integrated micro-instruments (ASIM) -microelectronics, integration of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), miniaturization, and signal conditioning-enables the development of small satellite technologies. However, cost-effective management of nano- and pico-satellites, rapid data distribution methods, and quality assurance procedures of these mission developments, are far from achievable standard and performance capacity. Thus, this study presents the status quo, possibilities and prospects of small satellite mission activities, research budget and cost drivers toward attaining cost-effective missions, with visions of the future missions and greater involvement of local and small-scale industry.