Abstract. Development of micro and nanosatellites aimed at solar-terrestrial connection research is considered. Recommendations formulated at special scientific session of Space Council of the Russian Academy of sciences devoted to possibilities of solar-terrestrial research using micro-, nano- and picosatellites and discussion of expanded cooperation between small spacecraft designers and manufacturers are presented. The feasibility of competitive scientific priorities for small spacecraft is emphasized as an important complement to Russian Federal Space Program. A review of relevant foreign CubeSat projects is carried out. General requirements and approaches to problems of small satellites research and development are formulated and several examples are analyzed. Ways to improve CubeSat development in Russia are proposed.

Keywords: CubeSat, nanosatellites, microsatellites, solar-terrestrial connection, near-Earth plasma, ionosphere, magnetosphere

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