NASA seeks proposals for CubeSat nanosatellite space missions, payloads

Posted by Courtney E. HowardWASHINGTON, 8 Aug. 2011. NASA officials are seeking proposals for small satellite payloads to fly on CubeSat miniature research spacecraft launching between 2012 and 2014. CubeSats are cube-shaped nanosatellites measuring roughly four inches long and one quart in volume, and weighing less than three pounds. NASA officials welcome proposed CubeSat investigations consistent with the organization’s Strategic Plan and the Education Strategic Coordination Framework. The research should address science, exploration, technology development, education, or operations. Auxiliary payloads on previously planned missions are applicable.

Applicants must submit proposals electronically by 4:30 p.m. EDT on Nov. 14. NASA staff will select the payloads by Jan. 30, 2012.

Selection does not guarantee a launch opportunity. The selected spacecraft will be eligible for flight after final negotiations when a launch opportunity arises. NASA will not provide funding for the development of the small satellites.

NASA has announced the results from the second round of the CubeSat Launch Initiative. From the first two launch initiatives, 32 payloads made the short-list for launch opportunities in 2011 and 2012. They are eligible for launch pending an appropriate opportunity and final negotiations.

The satellites hail from 18 states: Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah, and Virginia.