Event Title
Session
Technical Session VII: Spacecraft Systems and Standards
Presentation Slides
Abstract
CubeSats, a type of nano-satellite, have the potential to provide a relatively low cost platform to conduct on-orbit research. While CubeSat form factor and mass are well-defined, defining clear processes for designing, building, testing, and qualifying will assist in delivering satellites on schedule with a high probably of mission success. This paper describes best practices and lessons learned for a CubeSat program intended to launch a satellite every 18 months. Good systems engineering practices were followed and the described method includes recommendations for defining the mission, designing the satellite subsystems, and testing procedures and equipment.
Rapid Build and Space Qualification of CubeSats
CubeSats, a type of nano-satellite, have the potential to provide a relatively low cost platform to conduct on-orbit research. While CubeSat form factor and mass are well-defined, defining clear processes for designing, building, testing, and qualifying will assist in delivering satellites on schedule with a high probably of mission success. This paper describes best practices and lessons learned for a CubeSat program intended to launch a satellite every 18 months. Good systems engineering practices were followed and the described method includes recommendations for defining the mission, designing the satellite subsystems, and testing procedures and equipment.