Formation flying mission for the UW Dawgstar satellite

Abstract

An overview of a small satellite (<15 kg) being designed and built by the University of Washington for multiple small satellite formation flying is presented. The Dawgstar nanosatellite is one of three satellites being built for a three satellite formation experiment termed ION-F, and is unique in its propulsive capability. The satellites will also utilize an integrated GPS/cross-link system to allow fast and accurate update of relative satellite positions. The three satellites are each a part of the AFRL/DARPA/NASA University Nanosatellite program, which addresses building unique small satellites and developing coordination experiments for space. The satellites are being designed for a Space Shuttle launch in January 2002.