Cornell University Satellite
The Cornell University Satellite (CUSat) is a nanosatellite developed by Cornell University that launched on 29 September 2013. It used a new algorithm called Carrier-phase Differential GPS (CDGPS) to calibrate global positioning systems to an accuracy of 3 millimeters. This technology can allow multiple spacecraft to travel in close proximity.
| Names | CUSat |
|---|---|
| Mission type | Technology demonstration |
| Operator | Cornell University/AFRL |
| COSPAR ID | 2013-055B |
| SATCAT no. | 39266 |
| Website | At Cornell.edu |
| Spacecraft properties | |
| Manufacturer | Cornell Space Systems |
| Launch mass | 40.82 kg (90.0 lb) |
| Start of mission | |
| Launch date | 16:00, September 29, 2013 (UTC) |
| Rocket | Falcon 9 v1.1 |
| Launch site | Vandenberg Air Force Base |
| Orbital parameters | |
| Reference system | Geocentric |
| Regime | Low Earth Orbit |
The CUSat project began in 2005 and was the winner of the University Nanosat-4 Program which aims to educate the future aerospace workforce and develop new space technologies. As part of this program, CUSat completed environmental testing and other aspects of final I&T in the AFRL Aerospace Engineering Facility at Kirtland Air Force Base. CUSat worked with AFRL to complete the Department of Defense SERB process in preparation for a launch with the Space Test Program. The satellite launched as a secondary payload to CASSIOPE on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on 29 September 2013.