Design of a CubeSat 2324: Mechanical, Propulsion, Environment

Neu, Jackson; Sherman, Ellie

Student Work

Design of a CubeSat 2324: Mechanical, Propulsion, Environment

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This project reports on the conceptual design of a 12U CubeSat mission for mapping the earth’s gravity field, referred to as the Polar Orbiter Gravimetry Satellite (POGSat). The mission uses a pair of identical satellites carrying a gradiometer payload. The pair of satellites will orbit at two inclinations of 91° and 103° at an altitude of 260 km. The mission will generate a complete map of the gravity field every month, with a spatial half-wavelength resolution of 100 km, matching the spatial resolution established by the Gravity Field and Steady State Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE). Orbital design and analysis were conducted using Systems Tool Kit (STK). A propulsion system was designed along with orbital maneuvers, and required propellant was calculated. It was determined a hall thruster using iodine propellant would provide ample performance for maintaining orbit parameters. Structural design and analysis were performed with SolidWorks and Ansys. The satellite conformed to the requirements of the dispenser system. Thermal analysis was conducted using STK and COMSOL Multiphysics. The internal thermal environment was verified to be safe for electronic operation. Radiation and space environment effects were analyzed with STK, and adequate radiation shielding was developed. This project also includes continuing the development of a Helmholtz cage for simulating the magnetic field a spacecraft would experience in orbit.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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