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PhoneSat is a nanosatellite, categorizing the mass as between one and ten kilograms. Additionally, PhoneSat is a 1U CubeSat, having a volume of around one liter. The PhoneSat Project strives to decrease the cost of satellites while not sacrificing performance. In an effort to achieve this goal, the project is based around Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) electronics to provide functionality for as many parts as possible while still creating a reliable satellite. Two copies of PhoneSat 1.0 are being launched mid April 2013 along with an early prototype of PhoneSat 2.0 referred to as PhoneSat 2.0.beta.
PhoneSat is a series of small satellite missions that use commercially available smartphones as their main computers. These satellites are designed to test the performance and reliability of smartphones in space, as well as to provide low-cost access to space for educational and experimental purposes.
PhoneSat is typically launched as a secondary payload on larger rocket missions. It is placed inside a small deployer and deployed into orbit once the primary payload has been released. Alternatively, PhoneSat can also be launched from the International Space Station using a specialized airlock system.
Smartphones are lightweight, compact, and have a lot of computing power for their size. They also come equipped with various sensors and cameras, making them ideal for collecting data and images in space. Using smartphones can significantly reduce the cost and development time of satellite missions.
The duration of PhoneSat's mission depends on the specific mission objectives and the health of the satellite. Some missions may last for a few months, while others may remain in orbit for several years. Eventually, PhoneSat will re-enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up.
The use of smartphones in space missions has the potential to revolutionize the satellite industry by making space more accessible and affordable. It could also have applications in areas such as Earth observation, telecommunications, and scientific research. Additionally, PhoneSat technology can inspire and educate future generations about space exploration and technology.