Genesis of a Multi-function Drag Enhancement and Measurement System (mDEMS) to Facilitate Atmosphere Modeling and Space Debris Mitigation

Faculty #80
Discipline: Technology & Engineering
Subcategory: STEM Research
- Tuskegee University
Co-Author(s): Jimesh D. Bhagatji, PES University, Bengaluru, Karnataka India; Piyushkumar B. Taylor and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Institute of Technology, Vasad, Gujarat India

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Since the advent of containerized pico/nano/micro-satellites (PNMSats), there is renewed focus to address/limit space debris. However, mass launch of PNMSats across the world is also an opportunity to refine satellite drag-temperature models and facilitate better understanding of atmosphere, space weather, and predict the life of spacecraft in orbit. A novel multi-function drag enhancement and measurement system (mDEMS) is proposed to – (i) rapidly deorbit PNMSats at the end of their mission-life and (ii) validate/refine drag-temperature models. An elaborate computer aided mechanical design is presented, which demonstrates the integration of – (i) a telescopic boom for isolating the onboard magnetometer from electro-magnetic interference, (ii) a drag gossamer mounted with drag sensors on a flexible printed circuit board, (iii) a container for storing batteries, and (iv) a dipole UHF/VHF antenna. The mDEMS is a two-stage deployment system for PNMSats in altitudes of upto 600km. The packaging volume is < 30% of the volume of a pico-class CubeSat and < 200 grams in mass. Preliminary results of the design are progressive and the proposing team is motivated to realize it into a commercial-off-the-shelf system.

Funder Acknowledgement(s): National Science Foundation

Faculty Advisor: None Listed,