US COMPANY SPACE Industries is developing a free-flying, briefcase-sized, 6.8kg satellite, called the Nanosat, capable of carrying out exterior inspections of space stations with video cameras.
The craft is powered by lithium- polymer batteries, has nitrogen-gas thrusters and miniature gyroscopes for attitude control, and will have an endurance of 12h. The Nanosat could be fitted with solar arrays and an enhanced communications system for longer missions.