Using SDR in Pico Satellites

Software defined radio is not just for mobile phone communications. It finds applications in numerous other places and for different reasons. One of the more intriguing applications is that in pico satellites. Pico satellites are small satellites developed by university groups for research and education purposes which catch a ride on rocket and space shuttle flights. Once out of the earth's atmosphere, they are tossed out into the ether and start their mission. In this application SDR is used for positioning and navigation. By using SDR techniques, the positioning system was made lighter, smaller, and most importantly with lower power consumption.

Best regards,

Hall T.