Determining the cost effectiveness of nano-satellites
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Authors
Mroczek, Austin J.
Subjects
Nano-satellites
CubeSats
cost-effectiveness
CubeSats
cost-effectiveness
Advisors
Rhoades, Mark M.
Date of Issue
2014-09
Date
Sep-14
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Nano-satellites have grown in popularity and capability since the 1990s. Over ninety were launched into low earth orbit between November 2013 and January 2014. Various Department of Defense services and agencies, including the Department of the Navy, have funded a number of demonstration missions that are being evaluated for military utility. While nano-satellites cost significantly less than traditional space missions, they also provide less capability. A quantitative method is required to determine the cost-effectiveness of nano-satellite missions to inform naval decision-makers. This thesis develops a framework to compare the cost-effectiveness of nano-satellites. After examining different methods of quantifying small-satellite performance and cost, a generic cost-effectiveness model is developed. The model is demonstrated using two hypothetical scenarios where both nano-satellite and traditional satellite options are considered.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Systems Engineering (SE)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funding
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.