Space Industries (SII) is developing a free-flying, briefcase-sized, 6.8kg, satellite, called the Nanosat, which will be ideal for carrying out video-camera exterior inspections of the space station. The craft is powered by lithium-polymer batteries, uses nitrogen-gas thrusters and miniature gyroscopes for attitude control, and can be operated independently for 12h. The Nanosat could be fitted with solar arrays and an enhanced communications system for longer, more varied, missions. The first Nanosat may be deployed from the Space Shuttle during the third flight of the SII-built Wake Shield, the STS90/Discovery in March 1998.
Source: Flight International