MACEJKO, J. Integrace MHS do mikrosatelitu pro kvalifikační misi [online]. Brno: Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta elektrotechniky a komunikačních technologií. 2024.
Jakub Macejko's diploma thesis, "Integration of MHS into Microsatellite for Qualification Mission," explores the feasibility and design of a CubeSat mission to test a Miniaturized Heat Switch (MHS) for space use. The study examines different CubeSat sizes, from 1U to 3U, highlighting their pros and cons. Smaller CubeSats (1U) are cheaper and good for basic tests but have power and space limitations. Larger CubeSats (2U and above) can perform more thorough tests and carry multiple MHS units, lowering the risk of mission failure. The thesis outlines a detailed plan for the mission, covering mission design, payload integration, system architecture, and operational concepts. It specifies the mission requirements and goals to ensure the MHS can be tested in simulated space conditions. This careful planning is crucial to verify the MHS's functionality and performance in space. Overall, the thesis shows that a CubeSat mission can successfully qualify a Miniaturized Heat Switch for space applications. It provides a solid framework for future missions, ensuring the MHS meets strict space requirements. The research not only confirms the technical aspects of the MHS but also offers practical insights into designing and executing space qualification missions.
The diploma thesis presents an extensive analysis of CubeSat configurations for testing the Miniaturized Heat Switch (MHS) in space. It effectively outlines the main objectives, evaluates different CubeSat sizes and orbits, and provides detailed testing methodologies. The research offers clear and actionable recommendations, contributing significantly to the field of small satellite missions. The thesis sets a clear main objective: to design a CubeSat demonstration mission to qualify the MHS for space usage. This provides a strong foundation for the entire research. The evaluation of 1U, 1.5U, and 2U+ CubeSat configurations is thorough. The analysis considers power budgets, mission complexity, and cost implications, providing a well-rounded assessment of each option. The selection of Low Earth Orbit (LEO), specifically Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) and ISS orbit, is well-justified. The detailed parameters and power budgets for these orbits enhance the thesis's practical applicability. The detailed plans for performance and function validation tests are a strong aspect of the thesis. The use of a thermal vacuum chamber to simulate space conditions and the comprehensive experimental setup illustrate a practical approach to testing the MHS. While the thesis mentions cost as a critical factor, a more detailed financial analysis comparing the expenses across different configurations and orbits would strengthen the recommendations. The potential technical challenges and risks associated with integrating the MHS into the CubeSat, such as interfacing with other systems and managing thermal loads in space, are not explored in depth. The thesis could benefit from a more detailed discussion on the data analysis methods to be used after the tests. Including specific statistical tools and criteria for success would provide clarity on how performance and functionality will be assessed. Overall, the thesis offers a valuable contribution to the field of small satellite missions and provides a clear roadmap for testing the MHS in space. With enhancements in the discussion of cost analysis, potential challenges, and data analysis methods, it would be even more robust and comprehensive. Given all this I propose to give 92 points. Questions for Further Discussion: 1. Can you provide a more detailed breakdown of the cost implications for each CubeSat configuration, including manufacturing and launch expenses? 2. What specific technical challenges do you anticipate in implementing the ADCS in the 1.5U configuration, and how do you propose to address them? 3. How do you plan to address potential integration challenges of the MHS within the CubeSat, particularly concerning interfacing with other onboard systems and managing thermal loads in space? 4. What specific data analysis methods and statistical tools will you use to evaluate the performance and functionality test results, and what criteria will define the success of the MHS in these tests?
eVSKP id 160071