The Importance of Miniaturisation in Satellite Technology

Satellites today come in many sizes — from huge geostationary systems weighing tons to ultra-small ones that fit in your hand. Over the past two decades, engineers realized the need to make satellites smaller, lighter, and more efficient. This trend, known as miniaturisation, has transformed space technology by lowering costs, speeding up innovation, and making access to space possible for universities, startups, and smaller nations.

Modern satellites are classified by size: microsatellites (10–100 kg), nanosatellites (1–10 kg, like the 10×10×10 cm CubeSat), and picosatellites or PocketQubes (as small as 5×5×5 cm). Despite their size, these satellites can perform communication, imaging, and scientific missions that once required far larger systems. Their reduced mass cuts launch costs and allows dozens of satellites to be sent into orbit together, forming constellations that provide global coverage for communications and Earth observation.

In Armenia, the Center for Innovation Promotion and Research (CIPR) is at the forefront of this movement. At CIPR, we develop PocketQube, CanSat, FemtoSat and CubeSat platforms, focusing on miniaturised systems that combine innovation with accessibility. Our projects give students and engineers hands-on experience in designing, testing, and operating real satellites, helping Armenia take its place in the global space industry.

Miniaturisation is not just a trend — it’s the future of space. It enables faster progress, affordable missions, and wider participation. By advancing small satellite technologies, we are helping build a smarter, more connected, and more sustainable space era.