Key Takeaways: Miniaturized optics are revolutionizing CubeSats by enabling high-resolution imaging, agile beam steering, and real-time spectral analysis in compact form factors. Innovations like folded telescopes, MEMS mirrors, and compact spectrometers allow advanced performance in tight 1U–6U payloads. Optical engineers overcome challenges—vibration, thermal shifts, and radiation—using techniques like additive manufacturing, athermal designs, and hermetic sealing. […]