The Poly-Picosatellite Orbital Deployer (P-POD) is a standardized deployer system used to deploy small satellites, including CubeSats and CanSats, into space. It was developed by California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) and is widely used by many universities, research organizations, and private companies for small satellite missions.
The P-POD is a spring-loaded deployer system that can accommodate multiple CubeSats or CanSats in a standard-sized container. The system is designed to fit within a standard-sized satellite separation system on launch vehicles, making it an ideal choice for small satellite missions that need to share a ride with other payloads.
The P-POD has several key features that make it a popular choice for small satellite missions, including:
- Standardized Size and Form Factor: The P-POD has a standardized size and form factor that is compatible with most launch vehicles, making it an easy choice for integrating and deploying small satellites.
- Multiple Deployment Options: The P-POD offers multiple deployment options, including spring-loaded ejection, manual separation, and even the ability to use thrusters for precise deployment.
- Easy Integration: The P-POD is designed for easy integration with small satellite payloads. It features mounting interfaces and electrical connections that allow for easy integration into the satellite.
- Flight-Proven: The P-POD has a proven track record of successful deployments, with over 200 P-PODs having been flown to date.
The standard P-POD configuration is a cylindrical structure with a length of approximately 36 centimeters (14 inches) and a diameter of approximately 10 centimeters (4 inches). It consists of two main sections: the bottom plate and the top plate.
The bottom plate of the P-POD contains the spring-loaded deployment mechanism, which houses the small satellites. It features a series of pushers or springs that provide the force required for deployment. The bottom plate also includes mounting interfaces and electrical connections for integrating the small satellites.
The top plate of the P-POD is used for attaching the P-POD to the launch vehicle. It typically includes a separation interface compatible with the specific launch vehicle’s deployment system.
The internal dimensions of the P-POD can vary slightly depending on the specific P-POD model and the number and size of the small satellites it can accommodate. The P-POD can be configured to deploy multiple small satellites simultaneously, with different P-POD models capable of accommodating different numbers and sizes of satellites.
It’s important to note that while the P-POD provides a standardized form factor for deployment, the size and shape of the small satellites, including CanSats, can vary within the constraints of the P-POD’s internal dimensions. Therefore, the small satellites integrated into a P-POD must be designed to fit within the P-POD’s allocated space and adhere to any specific integration requirements provided by the P-POD manufacturer.
Overall, the P-POD is a widely used and reliable deployer system for small satellite missions, including CanSats. Its standardized form factor and multiple deployment options make it an ideal choice for small satellite missions that need to share a ride with other payloads.