NASA recently deployed CubeSats into Earth orbit from the Kibo laboratory module using a small satellite orbital deployer. These CubeSats were designed by students from Mexico, Italy, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan for Earth observations and technology demonstrations. CubeSats are small spacecraft weighing 1-10 kilograms that use a standard size and form factor. They have become a cost-effective platform for science investigations, new technology demonstrations, and advanced mission concepts.
Original Source: NASA