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Rideshare missions: how small satellites get to space

Building a small satellite is now within reach of universities and start-ups. Getting it to space is easier than ever too, thanks to rideshare launches that carry many payloads on one rocket.

How rideshare works

1. The customer books a slot by mass and orbit.
2. The satellite is tested for vibration, thermal and vacuum conditions.
3. It is integrated into a dispenser or adapter ring on the rocket.
4. After launch, payloads are released one by one at planned times.

Why schedules slip

A secondary payload does not control the launch date. If the primary mission is delayed, everyone waits. Late testing results, licensing and export-control paperwork can also push a payload to a later flight.

Beyond Earth orbit

Lunar rideshares are much rarer than trips to low Earth orbit, because they depend on a mission going to the Moon in the first place, such as a commercial lander.

Educational content. Not investment advice.