Ncube satellite

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The Norwegian satellite nCUBE2.Foto: Bjørn Pedersen, NTNU

The satellites nCube-1 and nCube-2 were two Norwegian satellites, built by students at several Norwegian universities and university colleges. Because of problems during launch (nCube-1) and deployment into orbit (nCube-2), neither of the satellites became operational.

Both satellites was built to the CubeSat pico-satellite standard, which defined their weight and size (10 cm cube). This standard allows one or more cube satellites to be launched by 'piggybacking' with a larger satellite. In this way the smaller satellites get a cheap ride into orbit.

The goal of the nCube satellites was to communicate with amateur radio ground stations, and to test a space-born AIS receiver for tracking ships and reindeer.

More information and project documents can be found at www.ncube.no.