A cubesat is a type of miniaturized satellite used for space research that is made up of multiple 10cm cubic units. They are usually launched into orbit as auxiliary payloads on larger rockets and can be controlled remotely once in space. The first cubesats were built by universities and were used primarily for communications and amateur radio. Now, however, they are used for a variety of purposes such as Earth observation, atmospheric sensing, and technology demonstration.
Cubesats have several advantages over traditional satellites. They are much cheaper to build and launch, so they can be built quickly and in greater numbers. This makes them ideal for missions that require multiple satellites, such as Earth observation or atmospheric sensing. They also have shorter development times than traditional satellites, so new technology can be tested more quickly in space.
Cubesats are typically built using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, which keeps costs down. However, this also means that they are subject to the same reliability issues as any other COTS product. One way to mitigate this risk is to use multiple redundant systems; if one system fails, the others can take over its functions. Another way to improve reliability is through rigorous testing on the ground before launch.
Despite their small size, cubesats can carry a variety of payloads depending on the mission requirements. For example, they might carry cameras for Earth observation or sensors for atmospheric studies. Some cubesats even have propulsion systems so that they can maneuver in space or change their orbit if necessary.