NASA has launched the first satellite from the satellite.

The main satellite (belonging to the class of microsatellites) FASTSAT was launched November 19, 2010 from Baikonur in Alaska. On board apparatus was installed P-POD, is designed for launching of miniature satellites (nano-satellites).

Such systems, reminiscent of their catapult device, previously run only on the head unit missiles, hence the launch of the spacecraft was carried out. Using P-POD was launched into orbit nanosatellite NanoSail-D. Linear dimensions of the device is about 10 to 10 and 39 centimeters.

According to researchers, despite the small size of the new satellite will experience a number of new technologies. For example, NanoSail-D is equipped with a solar sail area of about 10 square meters. This sail is used for braking and to help keep the unit from orbit.