Want to build your own satellite and launch it into space? Its easier than you may think. The first in a series of four books, this do-it-yourself guide shows you the essential steps needed to design a base picosatellite platformcomplete with a solar-powered computer-controlled assemblytough enough to withstand a rocket launch and survive in orbit for three months. Whether you want to conduct scientific experiments, run engineering tests, or present an orbital art project, youll select basic components such as an antenna, radio transmitter, solar cells, battery, power bus, processor, sensors, and an extremely small picosatellite chassis. This entertaining series takes you through the entire processfrom planning to launch. Prototype and fabricate printed circuit boards to handle your payloadChoose a prefab satellite kit, complete with solar cells, power system, and on-board computerCalculate your power budgethow much you need vs. what the solar cells collectSelect between the Arduino or BasicX-24 onboard processors, and determine how to use the radio transmitter and sensorsLearn your launch options, including the providers and cost requiredUse milestones to keep your project schedule in motion. 
Abstract: Can any hobbyist build a satellite? Our DIY guide steps you through designing and building a base picosatellite platform tough enough to withstand launch and survive in orbit. If you have basic maker skills, you can build a space-ready solar-powered computer-controlled assembly suitable for attaching instruments and rocketing into space.