“Italian assets for space science and exploration with Cubesats”

Cubesats represent a revolution for space assets both for their low cost and time of realization. These small satellites are used for educational activites, as well as, for Earth observation, astrophysics investigation and fundamental physics experiments. Cubesats are also perfect benchmark to test new miniaturized technologies (i.e. MEMS), by opening interesting scenarios for industrial investments and technology transfer. Moreover, the affordable cost of Cubesats provides a unique opportunity to involve the emerging Countries in space activities and, in turn, to provide a new spin to their economy. In this scenario, the Italian Space Agency (ASI) has started several projects involving national and foreing Research Institutes, Universities and industries, as well as, by collaborating with other Space Agencies. We present the current National activities on cubesat missions, starting from academic collaborations and industrial involvements, up to scientific proposals and international projects.