Presenter(s)

Abigail Boyer

Comments

3:00-4:15, Kennedy Union Ballroom

Download

Download Project (732 KB)

Description

As part of the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative, this research consists of designing and testing a CubeSat satellite prototype. Primarily used for research purposes, a CubeSat is a cuboidal nanosatellite with side dimensions of 10 centimeters. Due to the harsh space environment, the CubeSat experiences rapid temperature fluctuations, leaving it susceptible to damage. As a result, only about 50% of current CubeSats complete their mission. Unfortunately, the current technology used to modulate temperature on typical spacecraft is too sizeable to be applied to a CubeSat. Therefore, the objective of this research within the NASA CubeSat Launch Initiative is to design an effective system to maintain the operating temperature of the CubeSat radiator. As part of the current CubeSat design, a system of fins, coated with phase change material (PCM), has been created to actuate outwards when heat disperses from inside the radio. The fins are coated with phase change material (PCM). Phase change materials are exceptionally effective for their ability to store thermal energy and will remove heat from the CubeSat when its fins are exposed to the environment. We were able to achieve at least 45 degrees of actuation through the use of nickel-titanium wires. Nickel-titanium is a shape memory alloy, meaning it can be manipulated into any desired shape or form and can revert to its original form when heated. Within the CubeSat application, the heat applied to the nitinol wire drives the PCM-coated fin outward. We developed our plaster molds in the lab and used kilns to train the wires reaching temperatures over 800 degrees Celsius. We were able to test our prototype within a vacuum chamber using electrical feed-throughs, thermocouples, and polyamide heaters to see if our fin would actuate under conditions most similar to those of an actual CubeSat. As verified through laboratory testing, the nitinol wire can be geometrically manipulated and then returned to its original configuration following exposure to heat. Additionally, the nitinol was strong enough to actuate the fins when excessive heat was applied. To conclude, the phase change material opens up endless opportunities for innovation within satellites and spacecraft innovations, supporting the actuation and movement of complex technology without the traditional equipment.

Publication Date

4-23-2025

Project Designation

Independent Research

Primary Advisor

Anthony G. Lococo, Rydge Blue Mulford

Primary Advisor's Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords

Stander Symposium, School of Engineering

Institutional Learning Goals

Faith; Community; Practical Wisdom

Design and Testing of a CubeSat Radiator Prototype

Share

COinS