APPLICATION OF MICROSYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES FOR NANOSATELLITE DESIGN

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Proposal: Application of Microsystems Technologies for Nanosatellite Design We envision next generations of nanosatellites replacing conventional (large scale, expensive, state-operated) satellites for variety of missions (greenhouse gas monitoring, animal tracking for biological studies, vessel tracking for marine security, communication in northern regions, for example) for private industry or university research teams. This project proposes comprehensive approach to develop microsystems technologies for nanosatellite applications. Nanosatellites (spacecraft with mass less than 10 kilograms) offer unique and novel opportunities not only for HQP training and technology demonstration, but also for space-based research. Significant advancement has been achieved in the last decade in nanosatellite design partly due to the technological development in Microsystems. However, there still exists a wide gap in technology that prohibits us from engineering low-cost, multi-purpose, reliable nanosatellites for scientific and commercial applications. Current nanosatellite state-of-art design relies heavily on commercial electronics with limited space qualification and offers little flexibility built-in with the design. The proposed research enhances design of subsystems and allows satellite designers to develop advanced, affordable, flexible spacecraft for suborbital missions. In particular, the proposed research in application of microsystems technologies for nanosatellite design includes: (1) micro-propulsion system design; (2) MEMS based attitude sensor and actuator design and algorithms to incorporate their low-grade characteristics; and (3) examination of field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based subsystem development. We aim to demonstrate the above technologies on-orbit. We will be the first Canadian group to demonstrate, through the planned QB50 CubeSat mission, microthruster concept using a novel solid propellant microthruster. We will also develop innovate attitude control and processing hardware using FPGA and test their performance on the test-bed that we developed with air-bearing and Helmholtz cage. Overarching goal of our research program is to engineer and operate modular and reconfigurable nanosatellites capable of performing Earth observation missions. Based on the experience gained from the technology demonstration mission, we also aim to examine the use of the above technologies on platform beyond nanosatellites such as high-altitude balloons, in the areas of trajectory correction, attitude control and decentralized control. Extension of nanosatellite functionality is important for the future of space engineering in Canada, as nanosatellites are rapidly emerging worldwide. To ensure continued Canadian leadership in space industry, we need to utilize nanosatellites’ potential to serve operational needs in cost-effective and responsive manner. In particular, we believe nanosatellites would be a key factor in environmental monitoring for global coverage, short revisit time, and low-cost. The expertise and knowledge gained through the research and technology development will continue to be transferred to our industry partners to expand Canada's nanosatellite capabilities for future missions.