Cubesat: Power and Comms System for Space Exploration
Cubesats are compact, lightweight satellites that have revolutionized space exploration due to their low-cost and versatile design. This project was my first step into engineering and marked the beginning of my journey as a software and embedded systems developer. The Cubesat prototype was built with a focus on energy efficiency, communication reliability, and navigation precision. Designed as a proof of concept, it integrated various subsystems to address key challenges faced by small satellite missions, including power generation, data communication, and environmental monitoring
The Cubesat was equipped with a sophisticated power management system controlled by PIC microcontrollers. Solar panels harvested energy, charging the onboard battery while ensuring consistent power delivery to all subsystems. Each solar panel’s voltage was monitored and reported to provide real-time health data, ensuring reliability under different conditions. This system was designed not only for energy efficiency but also to safeguard the satellite’s operation during prolonged use or adverse conditions.
For precise navigation and environmental awareness, the Cubesat utilized a 9-axis gyro sensor and a barometric sensor. The 9-axis gyro sensor allowed the satellite to maintain stable positioning in three-dimensional space, making it ideal for orientation-critical tasks. The barometric sensor, on the other hand, provided altitude data relative to sea level. These features enhanced the Cubesat’s ability to adapt to its surroundings and offered valuable insights into its operational environment.
Communication was a critical aspect of the project, achieved through the implementation of long-range RF modules operating via UART communication. This setup allowed seamless two-way data transmission between the satellite and the ground station's GUI. The ground station received vital telemetry data such as voltage readings, sensor information, and system status, ensuring that operators could monitor and control the satellite in real-time. This robust communication framework was pivotal for enabling long-distance operation, even in challenging environments.
The Cubesat project was designed with scalability in mind, envisioning a range of future enhancements. The next phase aimed to integrate a high-resolution camera to enable surveillance and imaging capabilities, making the satellite suitable for tasks such as Earth observation or disaster monitoring. Additionally, a flywheel mechanism was planned to control the Cubesat’s motion, enabling precise orientation adjustments. These upgrades would transform the prototype into a fully operational satellite ready for deployment in space missions, with the potential to support a variety of applications in research, communication, and navigation.
One of the standout features of the Cubesat was its innovative power management system. The PIC microcontroller acted as the brain of this subsystem, coordinating the charging process from solar panels and ensuring optimal power delivery to critical components. By continuously monitoring the voltage levels of individual solar panels, the system could detect inefficiencies or failures early, maximizing performance and reliability. This attention to detail in power management ensured that the satellite could operate consistently, even during power-intensive tasks.
Navigation and positioning were handled with remarkable precision, thanks to the integration of a 9-axis gyro sensor. This sensor allowed the satellite to detect changes in orientation and maintain stability, which is crucial for tasks such as data collection or communication alignment. The barometric sensor added another layer of functionality by accurately measuring the satellite’s altitude. Together, these sensors created a robust navigation system that was both cost-effective and highly reliable, setting the stage for advanced satellite missions.
The communication system was designed to be both scalable and robust. Using long-range RF modules operating over UART, the Cubesat could reliably send and receive telemetry data over significant distances. The ground station’s GUI provided operators with a user-friendly interface to monitor real-time data such as system health, battery status, and sensor readings. This seamless communication allowed for precise control and troubleshooting, making the satellite more efficient and responsive to operator commands.
Looking toward the future, the Cubesat was designed with an eye on real-world applications. Plans to integrate a camera for high-resolution imaging would have enabled surveillance and environmental monitoring tasks. The addition of a flywheel for motion control would have further refined its capabilities, enabling precise adjustments to its orientation and trajectory. These upgrades would position the Cubesat as a versatile platform for research and practical applications in orbit, offering immense value for academic and commercial use.
Ready to turn ideas into impactful solutions? Let’s collaborate to create innovative, efficient, and scalable projects tailored to your needs. Contact us today and take the first step toward making your vision a reality!
