A CanSat is a type of sounding rocket payload used to teach space technology. It is similar to the technology used in small satellites.
The payload is required to fit inside the volume of a typical soda can (66mm diameter and 115mm height) and have a mass below 350g. Antennas can be mounted externally, but the diameter can’t increase until the CanSat has left the launch vehicle.
The 350 ml – can sized small satellite is constructed mainly for educational purposes. It is launched into high altitude by rockets, balloons and/or model aircraft. The CanSat has a mounted parachute to slow down the duration of fall and protect it until it’s landing. The experiments are performed during descent.
CanSats are mainly used to teach space technology due to their inexpensive price and small volume.
No CanSat has ever left the atmosphere, nor orbited the Earth.