Plug-and-Play Modularity for Satellite Manufacturing

Our company, SPIN, is taking a unique approach to plug and play satellites. Rather than imposing a standard to design to, we have developed a universal adapter to rapidly connect and integrate subsystems with disparate hardware and software interfaces. This adapter is called the Multipurpose Adapter Generic Interface Connector (MA61C). Our approach is to provide an adapter based on hardware and software that is compatible with the wide variety of hardware and software interfaces used in the industry. We have adapter (hardware) modules that are suitable from CubeSat-class up through large satellites, as well as for use as ground support equipment, that provide a full suite of hardware and software interfaces. Software drivers are included that are compatible with many satellite subsystems (currently, about 80% of small satellite subsystem vendors). In conventional small satellite assembly and integration, there are many point-to-point connections, with most data interfaces routing back to the central flight computer and most power connections routing back to the central power system. Whereas by utilizing MAG1C, much more modular integration is enabled, with MA61C providing all necessary data routing and providing plug and play capability.

The MA61C adapter provides interchangeable HW and SW with standardized interfaces. It enables spacecraft to be built up with a plug-and-play convenience with components that are otherwise not supportive of plug and play by utilizing data analysis . The MA61C device has a Command and Control system that allows localized verification of the devices, greatly reducing the time and complexity of manufacturing. The MA61C adapter turns existing satellites into modular systems that can be altered rapidly to meet shifting objectives and risks.

MA61C reduces integration time and enables late-stage HW swaps. It also accelerates innovation and eases testing of new technologies and satellite configurations. The MA61C universal adapter will increase the options available to satellite integrators in terms of components they can use. This will increase competition among component manufacturers, driving innovation and reducing costs.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.