3D printing CubeSat: a low-cost mode of space exploration

Abstract

This paper introduces a 1U CubeSat based on 3D printing technology. Compared to the traditional large satellites, CubeSat has advantages such as low cost and short development cycle, so more and more CubeSat has been applied to space exploration missions in recent years. The design process of the CubeSat includes the determination of main parameters, the design of external and internal layout, and the structural main features. To professionalize the engineering work of CubeSat design, the concept of design process is proposed, and the structure and parameter optimization (SPO) about basic parameters and feature compatibility are found. The design problem is solved gradually by the structure and parameter optimization (SPO), and the value range of the selected parameters is determined. In this paper, a CubeSat prototype manufactured using 3D printing technology, having this several advantages including fast implementation, accuracy in manufacturing small parts and low cost, the combination of CubeSat and 3D printing technology will maximize the rapid development of CubeSat. In the space exploration field, the number of 3D printed plastic CubeSat is very small, and this paper is aimed to test the ability of the plastic CubeSat to complete space exploration missions in space. In this paper, the 3D printing technology and traditional manufacturing technology are discussed, and the feasible structure design model is obtained by combining the material and parameter design.