NASA has launched three SmallSats to test new space technologies. The satellites rode a SpaceX Transporter-18 mission from Vandenberg on October 1. One satellite tests ASCENT, a dual-mode propulsion system. It can switch between efficient and high-power modes. Another carries SPRITE, an ultraviolet telescope for astronomy research. The third hosts SSPICY, an experiment by Starfish Space’s Otter servicer. It will practise inspecting another satellite in orbit. The mission shows how small satellites can test big ideas cheaply. Also aboard was Google’s Suncatcher M1, a prototype for space-based solar power. NASA’s SmallSat programme gives researchers affordable rides to orbit. The satellites will now begin months of testing. Results could shape future NASA and commercial missions. The mission shows how SmallSats can test big ideas cheaply. NASA’s programme gives researchers affordable rides to orbit. The satellites now begin months of testing. Results could shape future NASA and commercial missions. Google’s Suncatcher M1 solar-power prototype also rode along on the mission.