Make the systems work together

A small satellite is a tightly connected set of systems. A change in one area can affect several others: a larger component may alter the layout, power use, wiring, thermal behavior, or access for testing.

Integration is the work of making those parts fit physically and operate together. Teams plan interfaces, test components on the ground, and check the spacecraft as a complete system before launch.

Small spacecraft leave little spare room. A component has to fit, use power safely, survive the ride to orbit, and remain accessible while the satellite is being assembled and tested.

This image shows the TEMPEST-D CubeSat from a separate NASA mission, with its solar panels deployed. It is a reference to spacecraft hardware, not a completed Carlmont spacecraft configuration.