Modular CubeSat

Project ID#
MAE0144
Course Code
19214
Project Type
Student Innovation
Field of Interest
Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Mechanical Engineering, Power Management, Satellite Communications, Smartphone Programming, Spacecraft Design, Structural Analysis
Description
The Modular CubeSat project’s goal is to design, build, and launch a modular phone based CubeSat. A CubeSat is a small satellite based off of a 10x10x10 cm (1U) cube and uses a variety of consumer off the shelf (COTS) components. The increasing computational power of smartphones makes them ideal for the increasing computational demands of CubeSats. The phone based CubeSat idea was proven with the NASA PhoneSat project. The project launched multiple smartphone controlled CubeSats, and lead the way to a new and cheaper method of CubeSat design. With the advent of modular phones, the use of the smartphone in CubeSat design has become even more desirable. The modular design allows a researcher to develop a scientific instrument without having to design the satellite itself, all they will have to do attach their instrument to the phone. The researcher will be able to use the newest communication standards, allowing for higher processing and data transfer rates than were ever possible with CubeSats.
Maximum Number of Students
10
Requirements
contact advisor
Additional Information
Radio or electronics hardware experience is preferred.
Contact Method
email advisor