Arianespace opens contest for cubesat launch Arianespace, is organising a contest where first prize will be a spot on a rideshare mission for a cubesat-sized satellite. The Paris-based launch services company is the running competition in conjunction with the VivaTech international innovation show. Participating teams will try to convince the members of the Arianespace jury by presenting the potential applications of their entry. Projects will be judged on their ability to improve life on Earth or advance human knowledge. Other selection criteria include the satellite design, which has to be compatible with a rideshare mission (deployment platform, one standard unit, UA, in size and weight, etc.), and eco-responsibility.