[amsat-bb] Re: Launch Costs (was-re: AMSAT-BB Digest, Vol. 7, Issue 312)

[Andrew Glasbrenner]

That's correct, but then again SpaceX isn't in business to give away launches. It's a false premise.

However, the Fox project is building multiple flight units, because occasionally 1U cubesat slots do open on short notice, and an off-the-shelf spacecraft has a chance to fly. This isn't without cost however. As an example, the solar cells for Fox cost about $500 each, with 12 per spacecraft. Spare flight units also need to be tested and properly stored and maintained. But, with the cubesat form factor flying so often, it's a good risk. Other form factor spacecraft would require significant vehicle dependent engineering to launch in anything other than a PPOD or variant.

73, Drew KO4MA

Sent from my iPhone

On Sep 24, 2012, at 8:05 PM, R Oler <orbitjet at hotmail.com> wrote:

> 
> If AMSAT were given a "near free" launch by SpaceX or any of the other new rocket folks there is nothing to put on the bird.  
> 
> The Dragon launching to the space station Oct 7th is only carring 1000 pounds there is a lot of excess lift capability...nothing to put on it
> 
> Robert WB5MZO
> 
>>