Like computers and cell phones, satellites are getting

smaller and single multifunctional satellites of today will be replaced by constellations of small satellites in the near future. Since the cost of the launch vehicle is proportional to the weight of

a satellite, the miniaturisation of satellites is helping to reduce

mission costs.

By using new small and inexpensive launch vehicles

that can carry modern small satellites weighing up to 500

kilograms thanks to efficient electric drives and the miniaturisation of space components, it will be possible in the future to transport

entire swarms of satellites into Earth orbit.