Session
Weekend Session 7: Science/Mission Payloads - Research & Academia II
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
We present the development of the low-cost, rapid development 1/2U AMS Beacon CubeSat payload, with focus on design architecture and risk reduction of the system. The AMS Beacon payload (Beacon) will be integrated into the Agile MicroSat (AMS) 6U CubeSat platform developed by MIT Lincoln Laboratory and will serve as a test platform for high-angle-rate adaptive optics (AO) on orbital targets. The payload will contain a high-intensity laser to provide point-source phase reference for ground-based AO development and test, a photodiode for measurement of received optical power, and a retroreflector for simulating passive object reflectance. The system utilizes commercial-off-theshelf (COTS) components, fixed optics, and high-precision body pointing enabled by a Blue Canyon Technologies (BCT) bus, among other innovations, to keep design compact and costs low. Risk reduction activities were strategically executed to meet aggressive constraints on mission cost (total cost: <$300k) and schedule (program timeline: <2 years). By establishing flight heritage using low-cost components, Beacon provides opportunities for future cost reductions and a strong foundation for payload proliferation across multiple satellites.
Rapid Development of Low-Cost 1/2U Adaptive Optics Testbed
Utah State University, Logan, UT
We present the development of the low-cost, rapid development 1/2U AMS Beacon CubeSat payload, with focus on design architecture and risk reduction of the system. The AMS Beacon payload (Beacon) will be integrated into the Agile MicroSat (AMS) 6U CubeSat platform developed by MIT Lincoln Laboratory and will serve as a test platform for high-angle-rate adaptive optics (AO) on orbital targets. The payload will contain a high-intensity laser to provide point-source phase reference for ground-based AO development and test, a photodiode for measurement of received optical power, and a retroreflector for simulating passive object reflectance. The system utilizes commercial-off-theshelf (COTS) components, fixed optics, and high-precision body pointing enabled by a Blue Canyon Technologies (BCT) bus, among other innovations, to keep design compact and costs low. Risk reduction activities were strategically executed to meet aggressive constraints on mission cost (total cost: <$300k) and schedule (program timeline: <2 years). By establishing flight heritage using low-cost components, Beacon provides opportunities for future cost reductions and a strong foundation for payload proliferation across multiple satellites.
