Bus development for a multitask engineering test satellite: SATEX

摘要

Multitask bus for small satellites is being developed at the University of Mexico (UNAM) for the conduction of LEO communications, remote sensing, and astronomical missions. The first prototype, SATEX-1, to be launched by Ariane in mid 1994, is a 50 Kg engineering test satellite with a primary communications payload and a CCD camera for low resolution imaging, as a secondary payload. SATEX-1 has been under design and development for several years and will be constructed by several research institutions, under finance from the Ministry of Communications (SCT/IMC). The structure is made of hybrid materials, including light aluminum alloys and composites. It has a three axis stabilization system. Attitude detection is realized by means of several sun and earth sensors. Electrical power is collected by two solar panels that are stowed for take-off, and deployed after separation. Thermal design is based mostly on passive components including radiators, shielding and orientation, but flat heaters are used in several places. Solid- state temperature sensors are used throughout the s/c to test and calibrate thermal models.