Design of the GG satellite

The design of the satellite for the GG experiment was addressed in phase-A level studies in 1997-2000, based on an equatorial orbit, and more recently re-addressed for sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). The mission consists of an experiment running uninterrupted with few operational modes, small telemetry rates, easily controlled by one ground station. The satellite is small, low-weight, with low power demand. The configuration, resembling a spinning top, is very compact and stiff. The main requirements are for thermal stability, drag-free control and spin rate control. The reconfiguration to SSO makes the mission suitable for a low-cost launch, and improves the thermal performance