Y416

Y416 is a modular small satellite bus developed by Nebula Dynamics, introduced in 2016 as part of the Nebula One family. It is designed for low Earth orbit missions including Earth observation, technology demonstration, and communications experiments. The bus emphasizes modular payload bays and standardized interfaces to support rapid integration of customer instruments.

The bus measures about 60 cm in each dimension and has a launch mass around 120 kg. Power is provided by deployable solar panels delivering up to 250 watts in sunlight. Attitude determination and control rely on a three-axis stabilization system with star trackers, sun sensors, and reaction wheels, enabling nadir-pointing or targeted pointing modes. Propulsion consists of a xenon-based Hall-effect thruster used for orbit maintenance and end-of-life deorbiting. Communications options include S-band or X-band downlink with data rates up to 2 Mbps, depending on link geometry and regulations.

Payload capacity is modular; it accommodates up to 25 kg of science or imaging instruments within two configurable bays. The design supports plug-and-play power and data interfaces to facilitate rapid integration, testing, and mission reconfiguration.

Variants include Y416-1 (base configuration) and Y416-2 (higher power and expanded payload bay). The platform has been cited in industry catalogs and trade publications as a versatile, cost-conscious solution for small-satellite missions, with typical mission lifetimes around 2 years and opportunities for extended operations through on-orbit servicing or decommissioning maneuvers.