In-orbit demonstration of functionality and performance improves confidence in the technology. Although generally an extensive qualification approach prior to launch is followed, for micro- and nanotechnology, nanosatellites can be a suitable qualification platform. For several years a standard has been developing for such satellites, aimed at university projects and other non-commercial applications. Initiated by Stanford University's Space Systems Development Lab and California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo (CalPoly), the CubeSat concept has been developed to offer students the opportunity to gain experience in space technology by working on a real space mission. Delfi-C3, a two-year student satellite project of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Sciences of Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands is based on this CubeSat standard. The Delfi-C3 satellite will act as a technology test-bed for three payloads. A Thin Film Solar Cell experiment will be performed to verify the performance of these cells in the space environment. In addition, an autonomous Sun Sensor using a wireless data link will be demonstrated. The third new technology will be an advanced high efficiency transceiver sized for application in pico- and nanosatellites. Delfi-C3 is scheduled for a piggyback launch in the second quarter of 2007 and is a precursor the extensive MiSat program, which started in 2005 with the aim to develop micro- and nanosatellites that will demonstrate a wide range of Micro Systems Technology and Micro-Electronics for use in spacecraft. Connected with MicroNed and MISAT, a number of successors for Delfi-C3 are foreseen to provide early in-orbit demonstration of these technologies every one or two years. In the presentation, the Delfi-C3 mission and satellite with its payloads will be addressed. Furthermore, some technical solutions and the way the project is implemented in the university s educational program will be presented