Rejected from NASA ELANA but still want to launch a satellite? Explore the PocketQube Alternative!

The quest to conquer space has always captivated the human imagination. Over the years, the advent of small satellite technology has democratized space exploration and fostered an era of innovation. While the NASA ELaNa (Educational Launch of Nanosatellites) program has been an appealing avenue for many teams to launch their CubeSats, some may encounter rejection due to various reasons. However, all is not lost. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of PocketQubes and explore why teams who faced rejection from the ELaNa program should consider this exciting alternative.

1. Overcoming Cubesat Limitations:

PocketQubes, a smaller variant of CubeSats, present a unique opportunity for teams aiming to launch their satellites into space. While CubeSats typically have a form factor of 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm per unit (‘U’), PocketQubes are even smaller, with a form factor of 5 cm x 5 cm x 5 cm per unit (‘P’). The reduced size and weight requirements of PocketQubes open up new possibilities for aspiring space explorers who may face budget constraints or technological limitations with larger satellites.

On the right, you can see an example of a 1P PocketQube satellite (SMOG-P) next to a ruler for scale! Click here for the full case study on SMOG-P 🚀

2. Lower Cost and Accessibility:

Launching a satellite, regardless of its size, can be an expensive endeavor. However, PocketQubes offer a more affordable pathway to space. The reduced material and launch costs associated with PocketQubes make them a financially viable option for teams that were unsuccessful in securing funding or sponsorship for their CubeSat projects.

Additionally, the smaller size of PocketQubes allows for increased accessibility, as they can be developed and tested in more modest facilities, reducing the need for large-scale infrastructure.

The picture on the right shows $50SAT, an open-source PocketQube satellite that can be built for as little as $250!

3. Rapid Development and Iteration:

The compact nature of PocketQubes facilitates faster development cycles. Teams that faced rejection from the ELaNa program may have invested significant time and effort into their CubeSat projects. By transitioning to PocketQubes, they can leverage the knowledge and experience gained while adapting their designs to the smaller form factor. The ability to iterate and improve designs rapidly enhances the likelihood of achieving successful missions in subsequent launch attempts.

Check out Ariel University’s open source PocketQube Kit that’s shown in the picture on the right!

4. Unique Payload Opportunities:

Despite their diminutive size, PocketQubes can still carry a variety of scientific or technological payloads. While the payload capacity may be limited compared to larger satellites, the reduced mass and volume requirements open doors for innovative payloads that can generate valuable scientific data or address specific research objectives.

PocketQubes provide an avenue for creative problem-solving, encouraging teams to think outside the box and come up with novel payload concepts within the smaller constraints.

Click here to read our blog on Six Space Proven PocketQube Mission Ideas! 🛰️

5. Collaboration and Community:

The PocketQube community is a vibrant and supportive network of space enthusiasts, researchers, and entrepreneurs. Embracing PocketQubes allows teams to tap into this collaborative ecosystem, which can provide valuable guidance, shared resources, and opportunities for partnership.

Collaborative efforts with other PocketQube teams can lead to the development of complementary mission objectives or pooling resources for shared launches, ultimately fostering a sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

Alba Orbital hosts the annual PocketQube Conference, filled with talks, panels and exhibitions! The aim of the conference is to provide a forum for the PocketQube Community to share knowledge and to foster collaborations! This year’s event will take place on the 4th to 5th December at the Glasgow University Union in Scotland. Tickets are available here: www.pocketqubeconference.com/tickets

CONCLUSION

While facing rejection from the NASA ELaNa program can be disheartening, it should not deter teams from pursuing their dreams of launching satellites into space. The rise of PocketQubes presents an exciting alternative that not only addresses the limitations of CubeSats but also opens up new avenues for innovation, affordability, and collaboration. By considering PocketQubes, teams can continue their pursuit of space exploration, leveraging the smaller form factor to achieve remarkable feats and contribute to the ever-expanding realm of human knowledge.

To learn more about our PocketQube rideshare services, get in touch at contact@albaorbital.com! Our team of experts have now launched over 30 satellites to orbit across 5 orbital launch campaigns, and would be more than happy to help get your space program off of the ground