The MicroCarb satellite is built around a bus that draws its heritage from the generic Myriade micro-satellite bus developed by CNES in partnership with space industry leaders Airbus Defence & Space and Thales Alenia Space. This bus has already been used for 19 satellites, 17 of which have already been launched (as of end 2015) and successfully completed their mission. The bus has been continuously upgraded to enhance its capabilities since the launch of the first satellite (Demeter) in 2004.

The following adaptations will be implemented to meet the mission requirements:

• New-generation on-board computer with greater capacity
• Extension of mass memory storage capacity and telemetry rate
• Use of inclined reaction wheels with the aim of optimizing agility and reliability
• Implementation of gyroless AOCS
• Compliance with the lastest space debris mitigation requirements (propulsion and passivation, etc.)

Artist's view of the MicroCarb satellite in orbit
© CNES/Illustration Oliver Sattler 2015