Astronomy Cast Ep. 757: CubeSats

The 365 Days of Astronomy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhkGB7FsMeA

Hosted by: Fraser Cain and Dr. Pamela L. Gay

Streamed live on May 19, 2025.

Computers are getting smaller, faster and more capable, which has enabled an entirely mew class of satellites: CubeSats. A mission small enough that you can hold it in your hands, and yet powerful enough to even travel to other planets and send messages home.

Every year, our electronics seem to get smaller and more powerful, with today's smart watches being more fully featured than the computers Pamela and Fraser had as little kids. These tiny processors, sensors, and transmitters are allowing tiny satellites with powerful functionality, and today we take a look at how this is changing space exploration.

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