Abstract
A new dimension of space mission architectures is emerging where hundreds to thousands of very small satellites will collectively perform missions in a distributed fashion. To support this architecture, high volume production of femto-scale satellites at low cost is required. This paper reviews current and emerging distributed space systems. A conceptual design of SpaceChip, which is a monolithic "satellite-on-a-chip" based on commercial CMOS technology is detailed. Assessment of the SpaceChip design is given and its use in future distributed space missions is discussed. Copyright © 2006 by ASME.