Tiny Tech, Big Impact: ISRU on Cubesats
Scaling Down Spacecraft Sustainability: The Rise of Miniaturized ISRU for Cubesats The quest to explore and utilize space is constantly pushing the boundaries of engineering ingenuity. As our ambitions grow, so too does the need for sustainable solutions that can operate beyond Earth's protective embrace. One such solution gaining traction is In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), the process of transforming resources found in space into usable materials. Traditionally, ISRU has been associated with larger missions and spacecraft, but a revolutionary trend is emerging: miniaturization of ISRU systems for Cubesats. Cubesats, these pint-sized satellites measuring just 10x10x10 centimeters, are revolutionizing space exploration with their affordability, flexibility, and adaptability. Now, by integrating miniature ISRU technologies into these compact platforms, we're unlocking a whole...