Every August, the SmallSat Conference brings together government agencies, industry leaders, and academic researchers from across the world. People gather to push the boundaries of small satellite innovation and explore new frontiers in the fast-growing commercial space sector.
This event has earned global recognition for advancing small spacecraft tech and creating a space where new applications take shape.
At the SmallSat Conference, the global small satellite community actually meets face-to-face to share breakthrough innovations. NASA and other government agencies work directly with commercial space companies, hashing out mission requirements and new tech capabilities.
Industry pros show off the latest in CubeSat technology and small spacecraft systems. Engineers and scientists present research that could change the way commercial spaceflight works.
Universities get to show what they’ve been building, especially when it comes to shrinking satellites and cutting costs. The networking here? It’s real—partnerships often start over coffee or a handshake.
Manufacturers meet customers who need affordable launch solutions. These connections sometimes turn into contracts, making space more open to civilian and commercial projects.
Organizers focus on practical uses for small satellite tech in commercial operations. Sessions highlight AI-powered CubeSats that make spacecraft smarter and more autonomous.
Climate monitoring stands out as a big topic. Speakers discuss satellite constellations that help with Earth observation, providing valuable data for weather services and environmental monitoring.
National security gets its share of attention too. Military and intelligence agencies talk about how small satellites can boost security.
Commercial launch services are a key theme. Companies share cost-effective ways to get satellites into space for both civilian and business customers.
Technology demos let people see new advances in miniaturization and improved functionality up close.
What started as a regional event has grown into an international gathering, now pulling in thousands from all over. The USA continues to host, and that helps cement its role in commercial space innovation.
The conference outgrew Logan, so in 2025, it moves to Salt Lake City. The new venue supports the larger crowds and more exhibitors.
More international companies show up each year, looking for partnerships with American ventures. That global mix brings a lot of fresh ideas.
Big aerospace contractors now mingle with scrappy startups. This blend of experience and new thinking helps speed up commercial space development for everyone.
Starting in 2025, the SmallSat Conference sets up at the Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The move from Utah State University means expanded facilities and better access for the growing small satellite community.
Salt Lake City offers a modern venue with plenty of infrastructure for the conference. The Salt Palace Convention Center has about 20,000 hotel rooms nearby, finally solving past accommodation headaches.
The center sits right in downtown, so attendees can walk to restaurants, catch public transit, or find entertainment easily. Salt Lake City International Airport makes it simple to fly in from major U.S. cities.
The venue packs in modern amenities and keeps everything under one roof—technical sessions, exhibits, meetings, and food. No need to hike across campus anymore.
Most folks appreciate the walkable downtown and the reliable public transit. The move really fixes the space crunch and keeps the event’s reputation solid in the aerospace world.
For 38 years, Utah State University in Logan hosted the SmallSat Conference. The campus gave the event a unique, collegial vibe, but it just couldn’t handle the bigger crowds anymore.
Even with the move, Utah State University stays connected to the small satellite scene. Its aerospace programs and research labs still support smallsat development.
Organizers want to keep that collaborative spirit alive in Salt Lake City. The switch from campus to convention center really shows how much the small satellite industry has grown and commercialized over the decades.
The Salt Palace Convention Center offers more space for technical sessions than the old university setup. Multiple rooms allow for parallel sessions and specialized workshops.
Exhibition areas now fit more vendors and tech demos. The central layout means you don’t have to trek between distant buildings.
Modern AV equipment and fast internet keep presentations running smoothly. Climate control keeps everyone comfortable during those long technical discussions.
Food service is right inside the convention center, making meal breaks and networking easier. The venue’s infrastructure supports continued growth, all while keeping the focus on small spacecraft tech and applications.
The 39th Annual Small Satellite Conference runs August 10-13, 2025, at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City. Registration starts bright and early at 7:00 AM each day, with main sessions kicking off August 11.
SmallSat 2025 spans four days, each with a different focus. Sunday, August 10 is all about setup and networking.
Exhibit setup happens from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Side meetings run all day, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, in Meeting Rooms 155 A-F.
The Welcome Reception begins at 5:00 PM in the Salt Palace Lobby. Industry events keep things going from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at various spots around the venue.
Monday through Wednesday are packed with the main conference program. Registration and check-in are open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the 2nd Floor Lobby.
The Enterprise Track happens in the Grand Ballroom, while the Research & Academia Track runs in the South Ballroom.
You can register for the conference right up to the event. Early registration usually closes a few weeks before things kick off.
Exhibitors need to finish setup by 5:00 PM on August 10. If you’re showing off a booth, best to arrive early Sunday.
Side meeting rooms fill up fast, so reserve those in advance. Meeting Rooms 155 A-F are always in demand.
Book your hotel early—downtown Salt Lake City gets busy, especially compared to Logan.
August 11 kicks off the first full day of technical sessions and exhibits. Registration opens at 7:00 AM for badge pickup and materials.
Both main tracks start their programming. The Enterprise Track in the Grand Ballroom looks at commercial satellite applications and new business developments.
The Research & Academia Track in the South Ballroom highlights scientific missions and university research. Attendees can hop between tracks as they like.
Exhibits in Hall A-2 show off the latest small satellite tech. Poster sessions run all day in Exhibit Hall 2.
Flash talks in Exhibit Hall C deliver quick, punchy presentations. Lunch is served in Exhibit Halls 3-5, giving everyone a chance to network.
The schedule leaves time for exploring the exhibit hall between sessions, so you can catch up with vendors and see what’s new.
The SmallSat Conference uses a tiered pricing system, offering early bird discounts. Registration covers all technical sessions and networking events. Students and media professionals get special rates, and the conference spells out cancellation policies for refunds.
Registration fees follow a three-tier structure, depending on when you sign up. Early registration is $775 from November 15 through May 9—definitely the best deal.
Standard registration jumps to $875 from May 10 to August 9. If you wait until the last minute, it’s $1,000 from August 10 to 13, right as the conference happens in Salt Lake City.
Students enrolled full-time in undergrad or grad programs get a discount, but full-time workers taking classes don’t qualify for student rates.
Media professionals can apply for free registration passes. Bring official media photo ID to check in, and you’ll get access to keynotes, technical sessions, meals, and social events.
Party Guest Passes are $125 for friends or family who want to join the social side. These passes include the Opening Social, Sunday Welcome Reception, and Industry Parties, but not the main sessions.
Your registration gets you into everything at SmallSat. You’ll have access to all sessions, technical presentations, and keynotes from industry leaders.
You can wander the exhibit hall, where aerospace companies display their latest small satellite tech. Attendees get program materials, sponsor swag, and official conference merch.
All refreshment breaks are included, as well as “Munch & Mingle” lunches for networking. The registration fee also covers social events, so there are plenty of chances to connect with others in the community.
Digital resources and conference materials come with your badge. These help you follow the sessions and keep track of important info after you head home.
If you cancel before August 8, SmallSat offers a partial refund (minus a 10% cancellation fee for admin costs).
After August 8, there are no refunds. The policy makes sense, given the timing and the commitments to venues and catering.
You can substitute personnel without any extra fees. Companies can swap registrations between employees if travel plans change.
If the Space Dynamics Laboratory cancels the conference, they’ll refund registration fees but won’t cover anything else. That’s about as fair as it gets.
The SmallSat conference splits into two main tracks, plus specialized presentations and networking chances. Attendees pick between enterprise-focused sessions and research presentations, and can join poster sessions and social events.
Organizers run two main tracks side by side throughout the event. The Enterprise Track, held in the Grand Ballroom, covers commercial applications and business developments in the small satellite industry.
The Research & Academia Track happens in the South Ballroom. This one focuses on scientific research, university projects, and academic progress in small spacecraft tech.
Sessions run from August 11 to August 13, with registration and check-in available from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. Flash Talks in Exhibit Hall C give quick updates on emerging technologies and new developments.
Side meetings happen in Meeting Rooms 155 A-F. These smaller gatherings let specific groups in the small satellite community dive deeper into focused topics.
You’ll find government agencies, industry leaders, and academic institutions taking the stage at the conference. Presenters share recent wins in small spacecraft development and talk about the new tech that’s shaking up the industry’s future.
Speakers dig into the main technology drivers and operational strategies behind small satellite missions. The program spotlights fresh innovations and cross-market partnerships that open up new possibilities for satellite capabilities.
The SmallSat conference draws a mix of voices from all corners of the space sector. Government folks talk about policy shifts and funding. Industry pros highlight commercial uses and what’s trending in the market.
Academic presenters showcase research and student projects that push small satellite technology forward.
The Conference Welcome Reception happens Sunday evening, 5:00 to 7:00 PM, in the Salt Palace Lobby. It’s a relaxed way to meet people before the technical sessions get rolling.
Industry Events run from 6:00 to 9:00 PM that same Sunday, scattered around Salt Lake City. These gatherings help folks in specific sectors find each other and talk shop.
Lunch gets served daily in Exhibit Halls 3-5, so you’ll have plenty of casual chances to chat. The exhibit areas buzz with networking—vendors and tech providers are always up for a conversation.
Even with more than 3,700 participants at recent events, the small satellite conference still feels like a real community.
Poster sessions fill Exhibit Hall 2 throughout the conference. Researchers and engineers share detailed projects in a more hands-on, interactive setting.
The poster setup lets presenters and attendees dive deep into the technical stuff. You can ask questions and really get into the weeds about methods and results.
Students often use these sessions to show off their work to industry pros. These chats sometimes lead to collaborations or even job offers in the space industry.
The poster area blends into the main exhibit space, so you get a full view of both commercial and research developments in small satellite tech.
The SmallSat conference packs its exhibition hall with hundreds of companies showing off cutting-edge satellite technologies and services. You’ll see everything from aerospace giants to emerging space startups—not just from the US, but from around the world.
Each year, over 200 companies fill the SmallSat exhibition. You’ll spot big names like Lockheed Martin and Boeing right alongside niche small satellite manufacturers.
LACO Technologies has a strong presence, operating just 15 minutes from the conference in Logan, Utah. They bring vacuum tech systems built over five decades.
Reflex Aerospace shows off satellite deployment and mission solutions, focusing on small satellite innovation and commercial deployment.
Startups and established firms all vie for attention here. Government contractors mingle with commercial space players. International exhibitors remind everyone just how global small satellite development has become.
At the booths, you’ll find everything from full satellite platforms to specialized components. Propulsion, communications payloads, power systems—they’re all here.
Software companies show off mission planning tools and satellite ops platforms. Ground station makers bring tracking antennas and data processing gear.
Launch services always draw a crowd. Companies pitch rideshare options and dedicated launches for small satellites.
Testing gear and manufacturing tools get their own spotlight. Engineers check out thermal vacuum chambers, vibration tables, and clean room equipment.
Lately, artificial intelligence for satellite ops and new materials for spacecraft construction are getting a lot of buzz. Edge computing and miniaturized sensors also seem to be carving out bigger roles.
To keep up with the growing crowd, the conference turned a Utah State University fieldhouse into exhibit space. That move kind of says it all about how fast this industry is growing.
Booths range from scrappy startup tables to sprawling corporate displays. The best spots—close to entrances and main walkways—go for a premium.
The layout encourages networking among government, industry, and academics. Booth numbers like #2143 help visitors find who they’re looking for.
Networking spills out beyond the booths too. Companies host hospitality events and demos throughout the hall.
Utah-based aerospace companies benefit from the Salt Lake City location, making it easy for local talent and firms to get involved.
The SmallSat Conference in Utah gives students a real shot at joining the small satellite community. Structured competitions and educational programs keep things lively. The Frank J. Redd Student Competition stands out as the big stage for students to present research and connect with industry insiders.
The Frank J. Redd Student Competition is the top aerospace competition in the US. Students present their ideas and research on small satellite concepts and missions to a panel of judges from NASA, industry, and academia.
Finalists take the main stage at the Small Satellite Conference, usually in the South Ballroom. Each gets up to 12 minutes for their talk, then faces 3 minutes of judge questions.
Judges come from all over—NASA brings technical experts, companies like Advanced Space look at practical impact, and universities like Penn State weigh in on scientific merit.
Scoring breaks down like this:
Students have to follow a few rules to enter. Papers can list up to three authors, and while faculty advisors get credit, they can’t be listed as authors.
Everyone named on a paper must help with the presentation. No student can author or co-author more than one competition paper, but they can present in other conference sessions if the topics are different.
You’ll need to register for the whole conference to compete. Utah State University’s small satellite community hosts the event each year. Students can’t contact judges before or after the competition—doing so risks disqualification.
The Technical Chair handles any judging or technical questions. If students break the rules, the Technical Chair can disqualify them.
Finalists get monetary awards for making it to the competition. Winners present their research to the entire SmallSat audience, which is a pretty big deal.
Students gain recognition and make connections that often last beyond the conference. Some even return as professionals later on.
First place winners often say the competition helped launch their aerospace careers. Engaging with judges from government, industry, and academia is a rare opportunity. Students also get feedback from experts working on satellite technology right now.
The SmallSat Conference tries to cover all the bases for attendees. Registration gets you into every session, meal, and networking event. They also offer accessibility accommodations if you need them.
You’ll check in at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City. The registration desk sits on the second floor lobby and stays open pretty late to help everyone get settled.
Check-in Hours:
Registration covers all sessions, exhibit hall entry, and program materials. Attendees get sponsor freebies, conference materials, and a badge that’s required for all events.
Media folks can apply for a complimentary Media Pass, but they need to show official photo ID at check-in.
If you want to bring a guest to social events, you can buy a Party Guest Pass for $125. That gets them into the Opening Social, Sunday Welcome, and Industry Parties.
“Munch & Mingle” luncheons and snack breaks keep everyone fueled up during the conference. Meals happen indoors at the Salt Palace, which is a relief in the August heat.
Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are always on hand. If you have other dietary needs, just note them during registration so the kitchen can plan ahead.
The conference needs advance notice for dietary accommodations—let them know when you sign up.
Badges are required for all meals and events, for both attendees and guests. That helps with meal counts and keeps things secure.
The SmallSat Conference works to provide accommodations for attendees with disabilities. If you need special services, let organizers know at least fourteen business days before the event.
Early notice gives staff time to arrange materials and services. The Salt Palace Convention Center is modern and meets accessibility standards.
Attendees should mention any needs during registration or contact organizers directly. The fourteen-day window helps ensure everything’s ready in time.
Organizers coordinate with the venue to provide things like wheelchair access and assistive listening devices, depending on what’s needed.
The SmallSat conference expects professional conduct and follows safety protocols. Organizers enforce dress codes, media access rules, and health protocols to keep networking and knowledge-sharing productive.
Business attire is the standard for all sessions and events. Attendees should dress for formal presentations and meetings.
Acceptable attire includes:
Organizers don’t allow disruptive behavior during talks or panels. You’ll need to silence your phone and avoid interrupting speakers.
Networking events require the same professionalism. Keep your conference badge visible at all times for security.
Exhibits and demos must follow Utah State University facility rules. If any activity breaks conference policies, organizers will step in.
Media must get accredited before attending sessions. Journalists and content creators need to submit credentials through the official process.
Required docs:
Utah State University verifies media status with organizers. Approved media get special badges for press areas and interview spaces.
Some sessions restrict recording. Media must respect speaker wishes about photos and video during presentations.
Social media posts about the conference should credit SmallSat and Utah State University.
Attendees must follow Utah State University’s safety rules during the event. Emergency plans and evacuation routes are posted everywhere.
Medical staff are on-site during conference hours. They’re ready to help with health issues or emergencies.
Safety requirements:
Food service areas stick to health department standards. Dietary accommodations need to be arranged in advance through registration.
Security staff from Utah State University monitor the event. If you see anything suspicious, report it to security or conference organizers right away.
The SmallSat conference has influenced how the space industry develops, tests, and launches small satellites for both commercial and government use. Every year, the event sparks technical breakthroughs and forges partnerships that help turn big ideas into real spacecraft.
The small satellite crowd treats SmallSat like a proving ground for breakthrough tech that keeps changing what’s possible in space. Engineers show off the latest in autonomous onboard data processing, letting CubeSats analyze data in orbit instead of just beaming raw info down to Earth.
Conference sessions highlight next-gen optical comms that really crank up data speeds. Suddenly, small satellites can take on complex missions that used to be the domain of massive, pricey spacecraft.
You’ll see AI-powered satellite systems make their first splash at SmallSat before heading to the commercial world. Climate-monitoring fleets and national security projects get a boost from machine learning that processes satellite images in real time.
The event speeds up how quickly new small spacecraft tech hits the field. Companies roll out prototypes that, honestly, often become operational within a year or so of their SmallSat debut.
Students and researchers pitch experimental ideas that push the boundaries of satellite design. Quite a few of these concepts grab funding or spark development deals just months after the conference.
SmallSat brings NASA managers, defense contractors, university researchers, and space companies together in Utah. It’s a mix you just don’t get in the usual industry channels.
Government agencies spot promising tech from commercial demos at SmallSat. The event acts like an informal marketplace where federal buyers and innovative suppliers meet up.
International teamwork gets a boost here too, with ESA folks working side-by-side with NASA teams. These partnerships often lead to joint missions that share costs and expertise across borders.
University research programs score industry sponsors through SmallSat networking. Academic teams show off their projects to commercial partners who might fund the next phase or help open up new markets.
Startups find technical collaborators and sometimes even their first customers at the conference. The vibe’s pretty informal, so entrepreneurs often pitch ideas straight to decision-makers from big aerospace organizations.
Salt Lake City has great transportation links and plenty of lodging options close to the Salt Palace Convention Center. Attendees can book discounted partner hotels or look into campus housing if they want to save a bit.
Salt Lake City International Airport is the main entry point for SmallSat Conference visitors. It’s just 10 miles from downtown Salt Lake City.
Most big airlines fly direct from major US cities. International folks usually connect through Denver, Seattle, or LA.
You’ll find rental cars, ride-shares, and public transit at the airport. The TRAX Green Line runs straight from the airport to downtown.
Driving distances to Salt Lake City:
Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops in Salt Lake City three times a week, connecting Chicago and the Bay Area.
Partner hotels offer conference rates starting at $142 a night at the Hampton Inn Salt Lake City Downtown.
Top partner hotels:
Most discounts require booking through conference links. Some hotels ask for a non-refundable deposit for the first night.
Premium downtown hotels:
Every partner hotel sits within walking distance of the Salt Palace Convention Center. US Government employees can get special per diem rates at select places if they show proper ID.
Campus housing is a budget option with basic amenities and easy access to the conference.
The SmallSat Conference opens up several ways to participate, from research presentations to industry partnerships. You can submit a paper or support the event as a sponsor.
The Small Satellite Conference invites research papers and talks from government agencies, industry experts, and universities. Researchers submit abstracts or full papers about small spacecraft technology, mission wins, and new developments.
The conference has several formats. The Research & Academia Track covers university research and theory. The Enterprise Track features commercial applications and industry innovations.
Flash Talks give quick overviews of new tech. Posters let people dig into technical details in a more interactive way. NASA Short Talks highlight government-backed research.
Utah State University manages the technical review for all papers. Committees judge submissions based on technical value, innovation, and relevance to the small satellite world.
Deadlines for presentations usually land a few months ahead of the August conference. Submitting early boosts your odds and gives you more prep time.
The SmallSat Conference offers plenty of sponsorship and exhibition choices at the Salt Palace Convention Center. Companies can show off products, services, and new tech to the global small satellite crowd at different partnership levels.
Exhibition options include booths in the main hall. The layout fits companies of all sizes and budgets. Exhibitors demo hardware, software, and services right to attendees.
Sponsorship packages put your brand on conference materials, signs, and digital platforms. Companies can sponsor tracks, networking events, or technical sessions. These deals get you in front of key players in government, industry, and academia.
Industry parties add to the formal sponsorships. Companies host evening events and networking meetups during the week. It’s a great way to build business relationships in the small satellite community.
You can find contact info and detailed sponsorship opportunities through the Utah State University conference organizers.
Attendees usually have questions about logistics, participation, and what kind of technical content they’ll find at this top small satellite event in Utah.
The SmallSat Conference happens every August in Utah. In 2025, it runs from August 10-15 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City.
Earlier events took place at Utah State University in Logan, but starting in 2025, the venue moved to Salt Lake City while keeping the August dates.
The event covers small spacecraft development in government, industry, and academia. Sessions dive into mission successes, emerging technologies, and future trends in satellite design.
Technical talks look at spacecraft systems, launch options, and operational challenges. You’ll hear about mission planning, cost-saving ideas, and new uses for small satellites.
The agenda includes both commercial and scientific missions. Topics range from CubeSats to bigger platforms weighing several hundred kilos.
NASA brings a big presence with presentations and a booth. For 2025, Dr. Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, is the keynote.
Government agencies, commercial satellite firms, and universities all send reps. In 2024, the event drew 3,700 attendees from 44 countries.
Industry leaders in satellite manufacturing, launches, and mission ops show up regularly. Universities also highlight student projects and research.
The organizers usually open abstract submissions a few months before August. Participants send in technical papers on small satellite missions, technology, or operations.
Review committees judge papers on technical merit and relevance. Selected papers go into the official proceedings and the presentation lineup.
Organizations can also join as exhibitors or sponsors. The conference website lists submission guidelines and deadlines for each type of participation.
The conference sets up formal networking sessions, exhibit hall meetups, and evening events. For 2025, there’s a kick-off party on August 10 to start things off.
Attendees connect during coffee breaks, lunches, and dedicated networking hours. The exhibit hall’s a solid place to meet satellite manufacturers, component suppliers, and service providers.
Special interest groups sometimes hold focused meetings during the week. These smaller sessions let people dig deeper into specific tech or mission topics.
At the Utah smallsat conference, you’ll find technical sessions that dive into spacecraft design, mission operations, and the latest technologies. Workshops focus on hands-on training, like working with mission planning software or learning how to test specific components.
Speakers walk through real mission case studies and share the lessons they’ve picked up along the way. They often bring operational data, performance numbers, and their own problem-solving stories from satellite programs they’ve worked on.
You’ll see both general sessions meant for everyone and specialized tracks for those who want to get into the technical details. Panel discussions pull together experts who debate current challenges and where small satellite development might be heading next.
