Preliminary Spacecraft Budgets

How to Build a Preliminary Spacecraft Budget

Overview of the importance of a preliminary spacecraft budget

• Understand the overall cost of a spacecraft mission

• Create realistic budget expectations

• Manage resources effectively

• Make informed decisions

• Optimize mission success

Definition of terms

• Spacecraft: A vehicle, device, or machine designed to fly in outer space.

• Preliminary Budget: An estimated budget used to initially determine the cost of a project.

• Mission: A task or operation that is assigned to, and typically carried out by, a particular individual or group.

• Components: An essential part or element of a space mission.

• Launch Vehicle: The rocket or other vehicle used to carry a spacecraft into space.

Identify the mission of the spacecraft

• Understand the purpose and objectives of the mission

• Define timeline, requirements, and launch date

• Set specific goals for the mission

• Outline the deliverables for the mission

• Establish a budget for the mission

Estimate the cost of the spacecraft components

• Identify all components needed for the spacecraft

• Determine the necessary quantity of components

• Research average market costs for each component

• Calculate an estimated total cost of components

• Compare estimated costs with budget allocation and adjust as needed

Research component costs and available options

• Explore alternative components and vendors to compare costs

• Evaluate delivery times and availability of components

• Analyze quality and reliability of components

• Examine warranties and return policies for components