Exploring the Potential of Miniature Electrodynamic Tethers and Developments in the Miniature Tether Electrodynamics Experiment

Nikhil Shastri, University of Michigan
Alexandria Western, University of Michigan
Abhishek Cauligi, University of Michigan
Roshan Radhakrishnan, University of Michigan
Bret Bronner, University of Michigan
Rupak Karnik, University of Michigan
Siju Varughese, University of Michigan
Brian E. Gilchrist, University of Michigan
Jesse McTernan, The Pennsylvania State University
Sven Bilén, The Pennsylvania State University

Abstract

The success of nanospacecraft has spurred an interest in using even smaller satellites for longer-duration, constellation scale missions, requiring the use of a propulsion source on board to counteract the effects of drag and for coordination and maneuverability. Previous papers have shown that the use of short electrodynamic tethers (EDTs) has the potential to provide propellentless propulsion for drag make-up and the ability to change orbits of these small satellites. The Miniature Tether Electrodynamics Experiment (MiTEE) mission is a student-led technology demonstration mission by the University of Michigan to demonstrate the use of these short EDTs in a 1U CubeSat frame. This paper presents updates for the major MiTEE subsystems. The mission has progressed significantly with the use of a high-altitude balloon flight successfully demonstrating the communications subsystem and satellite integration. The paper concludes with an overview of the future plans for the MiTEE mission.