Session
Weekend Poster Session 1
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
The CubeSat standard has led to the widespread implementation of repeatable design, integration, and operations processes.1 Following launch, the deployment of a satellite is one of the most critical aspects of any mission. Satellite deployers, also known as dispensers, are used to release satellites from on-orbit launchers and platforms. Dispensers have evolved into two competing, but not interchangeable, configurations using either rails or tabs on the CubeSat structure to guide the satellite smoothly out of the deployer. Rail deployment aligns CubeSats along a set of four rails, one in each corner of the dispenser. The satellite is then pushed along the rails by an ejection plate at the rear of the deployer. Alternatively, tab-based dispensers align CubeSats along flanges which are gripped by the deployer. Both methods have seen extensive use and have proven to be reliable. The challenge discussed in this paper is the incompatibility of rail and tab systems. A satellite with a rail configuration cannot be deployed with a tab-configured deployer and vice versa. To address this issue, Rogue Space Systems has partnered with the Laboratory for Advanced Space Systems at Illinois (LASSI) to develop a “Dual-Purpose CubeSat Deployer” that can accommodate either satellite configuration. A technical solution for this challenge is presented with a description of the specific mechanisms and interfaces that allow the CubeSat developer freedom to choose between rails and tabs. Potential use cases are considered, illustrating the benefits of the Dual-Purpose CubeSat Deployer. Verification of the deployer design is being performed with a prototype unit in the Summer of 2024.
Design and Development of a Dual-Use Satellite Deployer
Utah State University, Logan, UT
The CubeSat standard has led to the widespread implementation of repeatable design, integration, and operations processes.1 Following launch, the deployment of a satellite is one of the most critical aspects of any mission. Satellite deployers, also known as dispensers, are used to release satellites from on-orbit launchers and platforms. Dispensers have evolved into two competing, but not interchangeable, configurations using either rails or tabs on the CubeSat structure to guide the satellite smoothly out of the deployer. Rail deployment aligns CubeSats along a set of four rails, one in each corner of the dispenser. The satellite is then pushed along the rails by an ejection plate at the rear of the deployer. Alternatively, tab-based dispensers align CubeSats along flanges which are gripped by the deployer. Both methods have seen extensive use and have proven to be reliable. The challenge discussed in this paper is the incompatibility of rail and tab systems. A satellite with a rail configuration cannot be deployed with a tab-configured deployer and vice versa. To address this issue, Rogue Space Systems has partnered with the Laboratory for Advanced Space Systems at Illinois (LASSI) to develop a “Dual-Purpose CubeSat Deployer” that can accommodate either satellite configuration. A technical solution for this challenge is presented with a description of the specific mechanisms and interfaces that allow the CubeSat developer freedom to choose between rails and tabs. Potential use cases are considered, illustrating the benefits of the Dual-Purpose CubeSat Deployer. Verification of the deployer design is being performed with a prototype unit in the Summer of 2024.
