Nanosatellite Technologies for Space Resiliency

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There has been significant advancement in Nanosatellites (spacecraft with mass less than 10 kilograms) and nanosatellite constellation missions to utilize multiple satellites in a coordinated operation. In the near future, we envision nanosatellites in more challenging missions such as space surveillance and deep space exploration. Our research team develops nanosatellite technologies for advanced nanosatellites. In this Discovery program, we propose to extend the current research to examine three key areas that will enable large-scale constellation missions for space-based surveillance, autonomous operation and reconfigurable satellite systems. In the long run, we aim to introduce an efficient approach to engineer nanosatellites for space resiliency. Nanosatellite-scale star trackers (purpose-built cameras to image stars for attitude determination) are severely limited in various aspects including resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, and image size. Processing their images to identify space debris (more generally, resident space objects or RSOs) would be a challenging task. We will examine the feasibility of the nanosatellite surveillance mission concept using a such commercial camera. If successful, there is real potential to substantially increase Canada's space surveillance capability. Secondly, several methodologies are proposed to provide autonomy in satellite operation, not only to avoid costly mission operation, but also to increase the efficiency of the space mission. We will extend the current mission planning technique to incorporate functions for fault identification and avoidance to provide robust and reliable operation scenario with minimum input from operators. Lastly, microsystems (more specifically Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems, MEMS) technologies continue to play a key role in satellite engineering as they provide a unique tool to engineer various sensors, actuators, payloads and solar panels with low mass and power requirements. We will design MEMS control moment gyroscopes, on-chip Fiber optic gyroscopes and antennas for nanosatellites to further advance our understanding of changes associated with MEMS in space environment. All of these new components play an important role in developing robust nanosatellites to provide reconfigurability, flexibility, adaptability, and resiliency required for resilient space missions. The extension of nanosatellite functionality is important for the future of space engineering in Canada, as nanosatellites are rapidly emerging worldwide, and CubeSats (class of nanosatellites) are already recognized as a platform for monitoring Canada's large landmass, national security, weather forecasting and climate research. The expertise and knowledge gained through the proposed research will be transferred to our industry and government partners to expand Canada's nanosatellite capabilities for future civilian and military missions.