Application of the THEMIS Bus to New Missions

It is recognized that small satellites can complement the services provided by existing larger satellites, providing cost effective solutions to military missions, communications systems, remote sensing applications, satellite rapidresponse, science and technology demonstrator missions. However, today’s small satellites are largely confined to low Earth orbit where they perform remote sensing missions, conduct science operations, and serve as technology test beds. Future small satellite missions will include interplanetary missions, space-weather mapping as well as space exploration and robotic probes.