NASA is developing scalable, modular satellite platforms to reduce cost and accelerate science missions. The Athena EPIC spacecraft, built from eight “Satlet” modules, shares control systems among instruments, simplifying integration. Slated to launch in 2025 on a SpaceX rideshare, Athena aims to cut costs from billions to millions per mission. Other NASA programs like PTD and CLICK show similar promise using CubeSat-based designs. These small satellites allow for faster development, lower risk, and greater scientific return—especially for climate and weather observations. NASA says these systems represent a “less traditional, more efficient path to launch” for the next generation of sensors.
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