Session
Weekend Poster Session 1
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
As interest in exploring the moon grows, this study suggests a mission plan that involves using a CubeSat fitted with a LiDAR sensor (SALi) to survey large sections of the lunar landscape and gather precise information on its ruggedness and altitude. By making use of available components and an advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) system featuring star trackers, IMUs and maintaining a circular polar orbit at 125 km above the moon’s surface the CubeSat will implement the Lambert Method for efficient orbital insertion around the moon and employ reaction wheels along with ion thrusters for accurate imaging. Communication will rely on the 400 MHz UHF band. Utilize the CubeSat Space Protocol (CSP) for secure data transmission while enhancing signal strength through a deployable mesh reflector antenna. The KubOS flight software will oversee onboard functions with data being transmitted via Amazon Web Services (AWS) ground stations. This mission concept presents a strategy, for gathering detailed topographical data of the lunar surface by capitalizing on a CubeSats cost effectiveness paired with LiDAR technology.
Lunar High Quality Terrain Scanning Mission Using LIDAR Technology
Utah State University, Logan, UT
As interest in exploring the moon grows, this study suggests a mission plan that involves using a CubeSat fitted with a LiDAR sensor (SALi) to survey large sections of the lunar landscape and gather precise information on its ruggedness and altitude. By making use of available components and an advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) system featuring star trackers, IMUs and maintaining a circular polar orbit at 125 km above the moon’s surface the CubeSat will implement the Lambert Method for efficient orbital insertion around the moon and employ reaction wheels along with ion thrusters for accurate imaging. Communication will rely on the 400 MHz UHF band. Utilize the CubeSat Space Protocol (CSP) for secure data transmission while enhancing signal strength through a deployable mesh reflector antenna. The KubOS flight software will oversee onboard functions with data being transmitted via Amazon Web Services (AWS) ground stations. This mission concept presents a strategy, for gathering detailed topographical data of the lunar surface by capitalizing on a CubeSats cost effectiveness paired with LiDAR technology.
