The CubeSat Revolution
Small satellites, big impact. Discover the technology democratizing space.
A New Era of Space Exploration
A CubeSat is a class of miniaturized satellite based on a standardized unit of 10x10x10 cm. These "1U" cubes can be stacked to build larger satellites (3U, 6U, 12U) while maintaining a consistent form factor. This brilliant standardization, pioneered by Cal Poly and Stanford University, has shattered the cost and complexity barriers of space access. It has empowered students, researchers, and startups worldwide to send their own experiments into orbit, leading to an explosion of innovation.
Anatomy of a CubeSat
Click on a subsystem to see how our team brings it to life.
Structures & Thermal
The satellite's backbone. The structure provides the robust frame—typically made of lightweight aluminum alloys—that houses all components, protecting them from the intense g-forces and vibrations of launch. Our team uses computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element analysis (FEA) to ensure it's strong yet light.
The thermal subsystem is equally critical, managing heat through insulation, radiators, and coatings to keep sensitive electronics within their operational temperature range in the extreme vacuum of space.
Avionics (OBC & ADCS)
The brain and nervous system. The On-Board Computer (OBC) is a radiation-hardened processor that executes flight software, processes data from sensors, and manages all of the satellite's operations. The Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS) is the navigation system; it uses sensors like magnetometers, sun sensors, and gyros to know its orientation, and actuators like reaction wheels or magnetorquers to point the satellite precisely where needed for communication or payload operation.
Communications (TTC)
The satellite's link to Earth. The Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TTC) subsystem consists of antennas and radios operating on specific frequency bands (like UHF or S-Band). It transmits health data and scientific measurements (telemetry) to our ground station and receives commands (uplink) from our operators. This vital link allows us to control the satellite and retrieve valuable mission data from hundreds of kilometers away.
Power System (EPS)
The powerhouse. The Electrical Power System (EPS) generates energy using high-efficiency solar panels. This power is stored in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and managed by a sophisticated Power Conditioning and Distribution Unit (PCDU). The PCDU provides stable, regulated voltage to each subsystem, ensuring the satellite stays operational throughout its orbit, even when in Earth's shadow.
Payload
The heart of the mission. The payload is the primary instrument the satellite carries to perform its objective. It's the reason for the flight. For SRMSAT-1, this was an Argus spectrometer to detect greenhouse gases. For future missions, payloads could be anything from high-resolution cameras for Earth observation, to experimental communication devices, or scientific sensors designed to answer specific research questions about our planet and the universe.
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