Testing a CubeSat Attitude Control System in Microgravity Conditions

Cubesats, defined as 10x10x10 cm3 satellites, offer numerous advantages over traditional large size satellites in Earth orbits. Small size, light weight, low cost, and more opportunities to be launched as secondary payloads are the obvious advantages that make these satellites preferable to traditional large size satellites. However, due to the stringent size, weight, and power constraints and a short history of cubesats, many technical and operational details are still in development. We are investigating a customized, magnetic torque coil based attitude control system where torques are generated by means of a current through small flattened coils mounted to the outer surfaces of the cubesat that interacts with the Earths magnetic field. This is expected to be onboard a KnightCube for possible dust detection missions in sun synchronous orbits. Problem Statement We have constructed a Helmholtz coil testbed in order to demonstrate onboard control systems within the lab by suspending the cubesat within the field. We have completed an extensive set of experimental tests with this laboratory configuration; however, only single axis tests can be performed using our low cost ground-based testbed. In order to increase the Technology Readiness Level (TRL), we now need to extend our tests in two ways. Technology Maturation One is to test at least two-axis pointing capabilities of the prototype at any time in a microgravity (near zero-gravity) environment and two is to use the Earths magnetic field instead of the significantly amplified field produced by the Helmholtz coil. Near zero-gravity conditions from parabolic airplane flights can provide a perfect environment to test both of them where the cubesat is free to float during intervals of zero-gravity.

This magnetic torque attitude control system will benefit future CubeSat missions by providing a means by which to orient the satellite.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.