Maximizing Small Satellite Data Quality and Cross-Domain Usability

Small Satellite ventures are geared towards both research and commercial purposes, with the majority of small satellites launched today being for commercial purposes. With commercial efforts, innovative space platforms are being developed that may promise untapped invaluable secondary uses that go beyond the original commercial intent. For example, by engaging with partners in the research community, data can benefit civil research endeavors, while simultaneously resulting in substantive symbiotic commercial benefit. Leveraging academic/research institutional expertise can elevate the quality of data and produce end-user trust in those data streams. In this paper, we will describe potential ways for small satellite observations to gain broader applicability, notably through strategic engagement between commercial and academic/research organizations. We will also outline considerations that are important in developing the highest quality data sets possible, including sensor calibration and algorithms, and will discuss ideas for developing partnerships that can accomplish both commercial and academic benefits simultaneously.