CubeSat Demonstrator for Educational Purposes

Abstract

This paper describes the design of a CubeSat with a 1U (10x10x10 cm) size, which will be used in laboratory tasks. It includes six photovoltaic cells, mounted on the top of its mechanical construction. Cells will produce electricity to power all systems and to charge the onboard NiMH batteries to make the CubeSat independent of other sources of energy. The proposed design of an onboard computer combined with a communication system and an electrical power supply system is based on off the shelf components. Modularity, possible future expandability, and easy repair in case of any failure were the key optimization parameters of the design.