CNES projects library

May 31, 2017

Myriade

Since 2004, 18 microsatellites built around CNES’s Myriade spacecraft bus have been placed into Earth orbit. Their defining feature is that they weigh only 100 to 200 kg

The Myriade series of microsatellite buses is designed with low-cost, fast-track space missions in mind. The goal is to foster new space missions for scientific, military, technological or commercial purposes.

Cost was, and still is, the chief factor driving the main technical and industrial choices. Partnership agreements with Thales Alenia Space and Airbus Defence & Space enable the two firms to employ developed concepts on space missions for institutional and other customers in France, Europe and worldwide.

Myriade microsatellites are compatible with and qualified for single launches on the Russian-Ukrainian Dnepr, Russian Soyuz and European Vega vehicles, and for dual launches as an auxiliary passenger on Ariane 5. Other launchers can also accommodate Myriade. For example, in 2010 the Indian PSLV launcher orbited the Algerian Earth-observation satellite Alsat-2A.

In addition to spacecraft buses, assistance with satellite design and mission analysis, CNES’s Myriade series also provides partners and customers with a ground segment for in-orbit satellite command and control.