**Subsidiary:** [[Planetary Systems Corporation (PSC)]] >[!summary] >The ASD is a cost-effective, versatile, and reliable deployment mechanism for small satellites in the CubeSat form factor and builds upon Rocket Lab’s heritage Canisterized Satellite Dispenser (CSD) technology, which has successfully deployed more than 60 satellites to orbit across more than 11 years in use. > 🔗 Official Page: https://www.rocketlabusa.com/space-systems/separation-systems/satellite-dispensers/ 📋 Data Sheet: [[2004600-ASD-Data-Sheet2.pdf]] ![[Pasted image 20250111151020.png|400]] ## Variants The Canisterized Satellite Dispenser comes in two standard sizes 6U, and 12U ![[Pasted image 20250313193643.png]] ## Features | **Feature** | **Description** | |-------------------------------------|---------------| | **Preloaded Payload Tabs** | A modelable load path to the payload enables strength at critical locations like reaction wheel bearings to be accurately calculated. | | **Customizable Payload Volume** | Payload’s tabs are the only required mechanical interface. If not utilizing walls, the payload volume can significantly increase. | | **Low Tip-Off** | Payloads stabilize rapidly. Precision tabs and a linear way combine to minimize separation disturbance torques. | | **Motor Driven Initiator** | Creates the lowest cost, most reliable dispensing mechanism that resets in seconds without consumables. | | **Robust Structural Design** | Withstands extreme shock, vibration, and thermal environments. | | **Payload Electrical Connector** | Allows communication and charging between payload and launch vehicle prior to and during launch. | | **Conductive External Surfaces** | Prevents surface charging. | | **ASD-Constrained Deployables** | Greatly reduces the cost and complexity of payload deployables like solar panels and antennas by using the ASD’s internal walls to constrain instead of burn wires. | | **Complete Payload Separation** | Demonstrates whole system reliability during testing. | | **Manual Door Release** | Allows the ASD to be opened without releasing the payload. | | **Constant-Force Ejection Spring** | Ensures positive, constant force margin throughout ejection. | | **Low External Volume** | Increases packaging density on launch vehicle. | | **Largest Internal Volume** | Payloads have 25% more volume and can be longer than standard CubeSats. | | **Fully Removable Walls** | Ensures access to payload. | | **Reverse Polarity Protection** | Ensures deployment even if electrical polarity is reversed. | | **State Switch** | Indicates payload occupancy and enables calculating dispensing velocity. | | **Fully Documented** | Mechanical and electrical interfaces and CAD models available for download allowing rapid and low-cost design. | | **Parametric Design** | Commonality allows users easy understanding of electro-mechanical interface for 6U and 12U sizes. | | **Lowest Cost** | Reduced mission cost through simplified design, test, and integration. |