From the Delfi-C~3 nano-satellite towards the Delfi-n3Xt nano-satellite

摘要

On April 29, 2008, the first 3-unit CubeSat of the Delft University of Technology, Delfi-C~3, was launched on a PSLV-C9 rocket and is operational. The objectives of the Delfi-C~3 project were successfully fulfilled. Currently students are working on its successor Delfi-n3Xt. Both satellites are developments of the faculties of Aerospace and Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS).The paper starts with an overview of results and lessons learned from the Delfi-C~3 development and the mission with emphasis on sub-system development, satellite design, manufacturing, assembly, integration and test. Subsequently an assessment is presented about differences and improvements from Delfi-C~3 towards Delfi-n3Xt in view of the satellite development line. In a comparison common aspects and differences are addressed; both in hardware and project approach: mission goals and objectives, custom structure design, Electrical Power Subsystem with local protection circuits and Maximum Power Point Tracking, combination of UHF/VHF antennae, addition of S-band antenna, a new Command and Data Handling Subsystem, an Attitude Determination and Control Subsystem with sensors and actuators for 3-axis attitude control, satellite testing and adapted operations approach. Finally the payloads of Delfi-n3Xt: ITRX, MPS, SDM, SPLASH, T3uPS and some options are addressed.