Disruption in Space System Design

The 2007 State of the Future lists Nanotechnologies as one of five emerging advancements that are likely to have the most positive economic impact over the next 25 years. The carbon nanotube (CNT), a specific nanotechnology, possesses several key attributes, including high strength and reduced weight to name a few. CNTs present the military with exponential advantage in structures and component materials. Also, CNTs will drive a shift from the current large satellite paradigm to small system paradigm. This shift will improve access to space and protect space systems from both a space environment and anti-satellite (ASAT) threat perspective. The current paradigm pushes designers to produce larger and more capable satellite systems. This paradigm also drives the need for larger more expensive launch systems. A new smaller satellite design paradigm should be embraced, where the US leverages nanotechnology to increase US satellite technological advantage and field more capable systems at less cost. Before CNTs can be effectively used in space structures and components, various technical challenges must be overcome.