JAXA Launches Innovative 10-cm CubeSat with Unfoldable Antenna
On April 23, JAXA launched a 10-cm CubeSat as part of its Kakushin Rising mission, deploying eight satellites into orbit. This satellite features an origami-folded reflectarray antenna that expands to 25 times its size, showcasing advancements in low-cost space technology.

JAXA's Kakushin Rising mission successfully deployed eight small satellites into a sun-synchronous orbit at 336 miles (540 km) above Earth on April 23. The mission included a 10-cm CubeSat equipped with an origami-folded reflectarray antenna that expands to 25 times its original size.
CubeSats, which can weigh between 1 kg and 10 kg, can be developed by university teams for a few thousand dollars, significantly reducing space mission costs. The use of origami principles, such as the Miura fold, has proven effective in satellite design and deployment, enhancing efficiency and reducing launch expenses. JAXA's collaboration with Rocket Lab enables cost-effective launches, with the global CubeSat industry valued at $355 million.




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