ERWIN

Overview:

Size: 200x100x100 mm / 2U-CubeSat

Orbit: Sun-Synchronous Orbit at an altitude of approx. 600 km

Payload: Bolometer

Electrical power: 15 W

Communication bands: UHF, S-band

Project Description

Das Ziel der ERWIN Mission (Emission of Radiation based Wildfire INvestigation) ist die Detektion von Waldbränden aus dem Orbit durch einen CubeSat. Fast alle Systeme, wie etwa die Struktur, Stromversorgung und Software, werden selbst entwickelt. Als Payload wird eine Bolometer zur Messung thermischer Strahlung verwendet. Die gesammelten Daten werden bei Überflügen über die geplante Bodenstation in Friedrichshafen herunter geladen, verarbeitet und frei veröffentlicht.

Timeline

2014

Initial efforts at the DHBW Friedrichshafen to develop a CubeSat

2015 - 2018

Initial developments for the satellite bus and finding a mission idea

2019

Founding of the association SeeSat eV to realize the project

2020

Mission idea of detecting forest fires is sometimes defined due to increasing relevance

Subsystems

Electrical Power System

The EPS generates electrical power using solar cells and stores it in batteries. In addition, the required voltage levels are provided and safely distributed to the subsystems.

On-Board Computer

The central data handling software for monitoring and controlling all subsystems is executed on the OBC. Components of the RF signal chain are also located on the “CorePCB”.

Flight Software

We develop our own flight software based on the RODOS operating system. This is based on standards generally used in the aerospace industry.

Attitude Determination & Control System

Precise alignment of the payload to the target is essential for earth observation. The ADCS ensures this through the use of various sensors and actuators.

Infrared Imager

The thermal radiation emitted by a forest fire is to be detected by a bolometer. An additional optical camera is used for georeferencing.

Structure & Mechanisms

The various subsystems are held together by a satellite structure. This corresponds to the form factor of a 2U CubeSat. Deployment mechanisms are used to deploy the solar panels and the UHF antennas.

Thermal Control System

All subsystems have operating temperature requirements. The TCS regulates the temperature and heat flows in the satellite.

Telemetry / Telecommand

Payload and housekeeping data is sent to the ground station as telemetry. The satellite is operated from the ground by sending telecommands. Communication takes place via UHF and S-band.

Ground Segment

The satellite is to be operated from Friedrichshafen. The operation includes the monitoring and control of the satellite itself, as well as the processing and storage of payload data.