The development of small-payload rideshare capabilities: A 2000–2008 summary

Abstract

This paper summarizes the development from 2000 to the present of rideshare capabilities by various Government Agencies and Organizations. This development will allow acceptable, low-cost access to space for small satellites and payloads. The paper reviews the needs for such capabilities and provides an overview of the development and status of the enabling technologies, hardware, etc. required to achieve the desired capability. It reviews the development and status of each principal element necessary in developing an acceptable, low cost, access to space capability for small satellites and payloads.