Developing national space capability with small low cost satellites

Over the last twenty years Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd has transferred satellite-engineering technology to twelve nations, and launched 24 satellites. SSTL has gained a detailed understanding of the requirements for the successful development and launch of space programmes based upon low cost small satellite systems. Recent developments in constellations of independently owned satellites operating together shows how emerging space nations can gain access to powerful Earth observing sensor systems to monitor the environment, improve agriculture, mitigate disasters, prospect for minerals, and monitor national security. This paper outlines the progress in optical Earth observation from small satellites, and suggests the way ahead for cooperative constellations of remote sensing satellites to provide independent data for developing countries.