Nano satellite project
- Paper number
IAC-05-B5.6.A.13
- Author
Ms. Kristina Läfars, Student, United Kingdom
- Year
2005
- Abstract
The work was carried out in a school environment at Umeå University, Kiruna. The task given was to build a nano satellite in groups of four. The satellite should, in a solar chamber test, be able to communicate with the ground station and receive and transmit values from and to the control unit onboard. The satellite should during the sun chamber test measure the temperature inside the satellite box and outside preferably on the solar panel. It should also monitor the voltage and the current from both the solar panel and the battery. The satellite (solar panel included) was not to exceed a size of 450x250x150mm.The weight should not be over 0,750 kg. The temperature in the satellite was to be in the range of -5º to +50ºC. The task was divided into smaller sections so the work would be easier to continue with, in the group. The subgroups were Physical construction, Calculations (including centre of mass and centre of inertia). The electronic area was divided into one analogue and one digital. The work was however carried out over the subgroups even if the member’s hade there one areas of responsibility and expertise. The work carried out included al steps in nano satellite construction but at a smaller scale and with hands on equipment. Engineering solutions to the task given were made. And after receiving a tested breadboard solutions, to manufacture the electronics cards, solar panels and the physical structure for the satellite. Several tests were made and after some setbacks the satellite passed the crash tests end the finale test before entering the solar chamber. After 8,30 min in the sun chamber one of the IC-circuits was damaged and shortcut. Due to this the battery discharged in a couple of seconds. Although efforts to switch over to solar power were made, the satellite died.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-05-B5.6.A.13.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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