Satellietbouwers

Satellietbouwers are entities, typically companies or government agencies, that design, manufacture, and assemble satellites. These artificial celestial bodies are constructed to orbit the Earth or other celestial bodies for various purposes, including communication, Earth observation, scientific research, and navigation. The process of building a satellite is highly complex, involving numerous specialized fields such as aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science.

The design phase requires defining the satellite's mission, determining its required payload (instruments for data collection or transmission), and specifying its structural integrity, power requirements, and communication systems. Manufacturing involves the precise fabrication of components, from the satellite's chassis and solar panels to sophisticated sensors and transponders. Assembly takes place in highly controlled cleanroom environments to prevent contamination, which could compromise the sensitive electronics. Rigorous testing follows, simulating the harsh conditions of space, including extreme temperatures, vacuum, and vibration, to ensure the satellite will function reliably once launched.

Numerous organizations globally are involved in satellite construction. These range from established aerospace giants that produce large commercial and military satellites to smaller, specialized firms focusing on specific satellite components or smaller satellite platforms like CubeSats. Government space agencies, such as NASA in the United States or ESA in Europe, also play a significant role, either building satellites in-house or commissioning them from commercial providers. The satellite building industry is a crucial part of the space economy, enabling a wide array of services and scientific advancements that impact daily life.