PocketQubes and the next generation of Internet of Things constellations

What are PocketQubes and what role do they play in the future of IoT Services from orbit?

Following our recent exciting announcement of a multi-launch agreement with Hello Space, where we'll be expanding their IoT constellation by delivering satellites to orbit in 2024 and 2025 via SpaceX, you might be questioning ‘What’s the Internet of Things?’ and ‘What’s a PocketQube, and what can they do?’. Well this blog is here to demystify the world of PocketQubes and the Internet of Things for those who are new to these concepts!

In recent years, there’s been rapidly growing interest in developing and launching small satellites for a variety of applications, from Earth observation to communications. One type of small satellite that has gained popularity is the PocketQube, a miniaturized version of the CubeSat standard that present a more affordable means to launch. In this blog, we’ll explore PocketQubes in more depth and how they are the ideal satellite platform for Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

first of all… What are PocketQubes?

Small satellites have become an increasingly popular option for organizations looking to launch their own missions into space. One of the most cost-effective options for these small satellite missions are PocketQubes, a new type of satellite that is smaller and lighter than traditional small satellites.

PocketQubes are a type of small satellite that measure at just 5 cm on each side and typically weigh less than 250 grams per unit or ‘P’. They are designed to be low-cost, low-power, and highly versatile, which makes them suitable for a wide range of missions, including educational and amateur radio missions, as well as commercial missions such as remote sensing and IoT constellations.

These tiny satellites were first introduced in 2009 by Professor Robert J. Twiggs, who proposed the idea of ‘a satellite that fits in your pocket’ while working at Morehead State University as a solution to the increasing cost of CubeSat launches. On November 21st 2013, the first four PocketQubes were launched into low earth orbit, paving the way for more small organisations to embark on their own space missions!

What sort of missions are PocketQubes capable of?

These tiny satellites are a new and exciting development in the world of space exploration, as they offer an affordable and accessible way for smaller organizations, universities, and individuals to conduct their own space missions without a NASA sized budget.

With their compact size and low cost, PocketQubes can be launched for as little as 25K Euro and are well suited for a variety of missions. We previously wrote a blog on ‘Six Space Proven PocketQube Mission Ideas’ covering applications from Education & STEM outreach, Earth Observation and Technology Demonstrations. However, in this particular blog we are going to focus on the applications of IoT, as that has been by far, one of the most popular use cases for PocketQubes!

What is the internet of things and how do pocketqubes come into it?

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical objects, devices, and sensors that are connected to the internet and can communicate with each other, often without human intervention. These objects and devices can collect and share data in real-time, which can be used to inform decision-making and optimize a range of processes.

Over 80% of the planet does not have access to connectivity, while IoT devices are experiencing exponential growth. This means that there is an inherent gap for global connectivity solutions. Space presents an excellent solution for providing communications in remote areas via satellite constellations, but the traditional cost of the space industry has limited the barrier to entry due to expensive space infrastructure and bulky terminals.

IoT satellite constellations are networks of small, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that are designed to provide global coverage for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. These constellations typically consist of hundreds or even thousands of small satellites that work together to provide near-continuous coverage of the Earth's surface. However, with the costs involved with the design and launch of traditional satellites, this can be a very difficult thing to achieve.

This is where PocketQubes step in! These tiny satellites can play an important role in IoT by providing a cost-effective platform for mass deployments of satellite constellations, enabling a wide range of low-cost IoT applications by providing near-continuous global coverage for data collection and transmission from orbit.

Why are PocketQubes ideal for IoT constellations?

PocketQubes are ideal for IoT satellite constellations for several reasons! First of all, their small size and low cost makes it possible to launch large numbers of satellites at once - this provides redundancy and increases the coverage area/revisit times, which is essential for providing global coverage.

Additionally, PocketQubes are highly modular and customizable, which means they can be easily adapted for a variety of IoT applications, including asset tracking, environmental monitoring, and remote sensing. Finally, PocketQubes are compatible with a wide range of sensors and communication systems, which makes it possible to collect and transmit data from a variety of sources.

Potential applications of IoT satellite constellations

IoT satellite constellations have the potential to transform a wide range of industries, from agriculture to transportation. Here are some potential applications of IoT satellite constellations:

1. Agriculture: IoT satellites can provide real-time data on crop health, moisture levels, and soil conditions, which can help farmers optimize their irrigation and fertilization practices.

2. Transportation: IoT satellites can provide real-time data on traffic patterns, road conditions, and weather, which can help drivers avoid accidents and reduce congestion.

3. Environmental monitoring: IoT satellites can provide real-time data on air and water quality, weather patterns, and natural disasters, which can help governments and organizations respond more quickly to environmental emergencies.

4. Asset tracking: IoT satellites can provide real-time data on the location and status of assets such as shipping containers, vehicles, and equipment, which can help companies optimize their logistics and reduce theft.

5. Energy: IoT satellites can provide real-time data on energy usage and production, which can help utilities optimize their operations and reduce costs.

PocketQubes are the ideal satellite platform for IoT constellations due to their small size, low cost, and flexibility. With their ability to collect and transmit data from a variety of sources, IoT satellite constellations have the potential to transform a wide range of industries and provide valuable insights into the world around us. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more innovative applications of IoT PocketQube constellations in the years to come.

FEELING INSPIRED?

If you’re feeling inspired by this post and would like to embark on your first satellite mission, why wait? Contact us today and take your first step toward realizing your space dreams! Our team of experts will help you every step of the way, from planning and preparation to launch and operation. We can't wait to see what you'll accomplish 🚀

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