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- CubeSat (2)
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- 2023 (2)
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Due to the recent progress in satellite control engineering, tandem flight arrangements of mini-satellites are currently in discussion and
under consideration for future space missions. CubeSat technologies offer an interesting possibility for space-born telescope payloads
based on this approach. In such a scenario, two small satellites will fly at a constant distance of a few meters up to 100 meters. Thereby,
the front satellite will carry the telescope optics and the second satellite the detector system. Related formation flight requirements were
addressed in the NetSat-Mission, composed of four 3U-CubeSats, launched 2020. Space technology challenges concern in particular orbit
control by an appropriate propulsion system as well as precision attitude pointing towards the joint target, and could be transferred from the
NetSat-mission to the proposed Tandem Mission. This will allow space-based telescopes with a long focal length even placed on board of
small or miniature CubeSat-type satellites. Cost effective Kirkpatrick-Baez type X-ray telescopes represent an important application here as
they have longer focal lengths compared to previous astronomical observatories using Wolter I type X-ray mirrors.
Progress in satellite control engineering enables tandem flight arrangements of mini-satellites in future space missions. Cost effective CubeSat technologies offer an interesting possibility for space-born telescope payloads. Two small satellites will carry the telescope optics and the detector system, respectively. Related formation flight requirements could be transferred from the NetSat-Mission.