Systems Engineering Approach

Building a satellite involves complex systems that need careful planning and integration. Here are some key concepts of systems engineering that will guide your CubeSat development:

1. Understanding Systems Engineering

  • Systems engineering is the interdisciplinary approach to designing and managing complex systems.
  • It focuses on understanding the entire system, from design and development to testing and operation, ensuring that all parts work together to meet the mission goals.

2. Defining Requirements

  • Start by defining your satellite’s mission and operational goals.
  • Understand the system’s constraints, such as size, weight, power, and budget, and define technical requirements to meet them.

3. Subsystems Integration

  • Satellites consist of multiple subsystems such as power, communication, and attitude control. Systems engineering ensures that all subsystems integrate seamlessly.
  • Learn how these subsystems interact and contribute to the overall mission’s success.

4. Risk Management

  • Identify potential risks early in the development process and implement strategies to mitigate them.
  • Regular testing, reviews, and simulations help identify weak points and prevent system failures.
flowchart TD
    A["Mission Planning\n(Objectives, Roles, Timeline)"] --> B["System Design\n(Subsystem Specs, Interface Definitions)"]
    B --> C["Hardware Development\n(PCBs, Integration)"]
    B --> D["Software Development\n(OBC, COM, EPS Logic)"]
    C --> E["Testing\n(Unit, Functional, Integration)"]
    D --> E
    E --> F["Simulation & Verification\n(In-lab Testing, Ground Station Link)"]
    F --> G["Launch Preparation\n(Docs, Reviews, Approval)"]
    G --> H["Launch & Operations\n(Data Collection, Monitoring)"]

    style A fill:#c3e5ff,stroke:#005596,stroke-width:2px
    style B fill:#e8f5ff,stroke:#0077b6,stroke-width:1.5px
    style C fill:#f5faff,stroke:#0096c7
    style D fill:#f5faff,stroke:#00b4d8
    style E fill:#e0fbfc,stroke:#0077b6
    style F fill:#d0f0ff,stroke:#005596
    style G fill:#caf0f8,stroke:#0077b6
    style H fill:#ade8f4,stroke:#023e8a

What are the phases of a satellite?

The development and deployment of a satellite involve a series of carefully structured phases to ensure the mission’s success. From initial concept discussions to final pre-launch verifications, these phases guide teams through designing, building, and testing the satellite to meet stringent space industry standards.

Each phase acts as a checkpoint to confirm that requirements are met and potential risks are mitigated. Understanding the phases - including the

gantt
    title Satellite Milestones
    dateFormat  YYYY-MM-DD
    section  Mission concept 
    MDR     :milestone, crit, a2, 2014-01-23, 4d
    A task  :crit, done, a1, 2014-01-20, 9d
    section Bus + Payload dev. & testing
    PDR      :milestone, crit, a3, 2014-02-3, 4d
    another task    :active, 2014-01-20  , 31d
    section EM integration & testing
    CDR     :milestone, crit, 2014-02-20, 4d
    another task      : 2014-02-12  , 12d
    section Software dev.
    FM     :milestone, crit, 2014-03-09, 4d
    another task      :active, 2014-02-03  , 38d
    section FM integration & testing
    another task      :2014-02-26  , 15d
    section GS software revision
    another task      :after a3, 30d
    section End-to-End test
    another task      : 2014-03-01, 13d
    section Operation plan 
    another task      : 2014-03-04, 12d
    section Freq. coord. IARU
    another task      : crit, active, after a2, 53d
    section Satellite delivery
    another task      : 2014-03-16,12d
    section Launch
    another task      : 5d
    section Operation
    another task      : 10d
    section Disposal

These phases create a structured pathway from conceptualization to launch, with each review and testing stage serving as a critical checkpoint. The MDR sets the scope, the PDR checks the initial design feasibility, the CDR finalizes the detailed design, and FRR ensures that the satellite is robust and mission-ready. This structured approach helps in mitigating risks, ensuring quality, and promoting mission success.

With this foundational knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to dive into the satellite-building process. The next step is to select the path that best fits your experience level and start building!

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