Advancing nano-satellite platforms: the Delfi Program

Paper number

IAC-08.B4.4.B9

Author

Mr. Jasper Bouwmeester, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Dr. Chris Verhoeven, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Prof. Eberhard Gill, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands

Year

2008

Abstract

Nano-satellites developed by universities have a mass range of 1-10 kg, which are orders of magnitude smaller than typical scientific and commercial satellites developed by the large space organizations. Their applications until 2008 were restricted to technology demonstration, qualification of small subsystems and limited scientific objectives. This paper will provide insight in new opportunities of very small satellites when continuous advancement in nano-satellite technology is guaranteed. 

The Delfi Program aims to launch a nano-satellite every 2.5 years. Two of the objectives in this program are similar to most nano-satellite projects. The first objective focuses on the educational aspects by providing students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience from the design, development and operations of a real spacecraft. The second objective is to provide a platform for micro-systems for the purpose of in-orbit qualification. The third objective aims for an advancement of the nano-satellite platform, which adds a long-term vision for the development and thereby distinguishing itself from most nano-satellite programs world-wide. The level of advancement will be determined at the start of each satellite project within the program and will create a technology push. 

Delft University of Technology started the Delfi Program with development of Delfi-C3, launched in 2008. Being the first nano-satellite of the university, the design was kept simple with passive attitude damping, no onboard battery and low data rates. Delfi-n3Xt, the second satellite in the program, will have 3-axis stabilized attitude control, an advanced EPS and a high data-rate link. These are mission objectives that are not derived from requirements from the payloads but from the program objectives. By defining these objectives first, the door was opened for a few payloads requiring more power, higher data-rates and active attitude control. This is an example that technology push works for nano-satellite projects.
Constraining the size of the satellites in the Delfi program to a three-unit Cubesat standard (30 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm) in combination with the ambitious objectives will also cause a technology pull. Optimization of the sizing of subsystems in terms of power, volume and mass will be necessary to fulfill the growing needs set by these objectives.

This paper will provide a long-term vision of the Delfi Program. It will address the opportunities but also the constraints of nano-satellites. Comparing the Delfi-C3 and the preliminary design of Delfi-n3Xt, statements will be made on the step-size of advancement of the nano-satellite platform with respect to the timeline and resources available of the individual satellite projects. 

Abstract document

IAC-08.B4.4.B9.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.B4.4.B9.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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