Implementation of the T3μPS in the Delfi-n3Xt Satellite

Abstract

This chapter presents the interfaces that exist between the TNO, TU- Delft and UTwente developed micro propulsion system experiment (T3µPS) and the Delfi-n3Xt satellite currently under development at TU-Delft. Delfi-n3Xt is successor to Delfi-C3, the first Dutch student nano-satellite. Delfi-n3Xt, like its pre- decessor is a 3-unit cubesat, but is more advanced in that it is equipped with an active three-axis attitude determination and control system, eclipse power and a high speed data link. The T3µPS is especially developed to provide for a means of propulsion fit for use in nano- and microsatellites. Such ameans is considered essential for e.g. future missions of clusters of satellites which require relative orbit control. It employs a cold gas thruster delivering a thrust in the order of a few up to several tens of millinewton. As propellant, the system uses cool nitrogen gas, stored in solid form in one or more cool gas generators. The T3µPS hardware is assembled on a single printed circuit board easing integration of the system in Delfi-n3Xt. When operating, the T3µPS may disturb the proper operation of Delfi-n3Xt.This is because of thrust misalignment. This disturbance needs to be compensated for to keep the solar panels of the satellite sun-pointed. The chapter presents the Delfi-n3Xt satellite as well as the T3µPS experiment and describes the interfaces between the two. Furthermore, it investigates the implica- tions on other satellite subsystems with particular emphasis on the ADCS. Finally, some Conclusions and recommendations are given. 1