Dual camera system for medium resulation earth observation in cubesats

Abstract

Here in this thesis design, testing, manufacturing, assembly, image processing, and some software information for a dual camera imaging system for medium resolution earth observation CubeSats is given. System is designed to use CoTS imagers, and lenses. CoTS components are tested for their suitability for space usage. Selection criterias for component selection is detailed, factors such as mechanical design of the components, their cost, and availability is important. Imager types, their working principles are explained. Optical limits, and selection criteria with lens and imaging sensor compatibility is also discussed. Design choices for space suitability, environmental testing suitability and specific mission requirements are explained. Effect of these requirements and their direct results have been explained in the thesis. Assembly procedures for system is explained in detail, also satellite assembly procedure is mentioned to some extend. SharjahSat-1 satellite, its mission and its configuration is shared in this work, to further explain design choices and boundary conditions created by rest of the mission is explained. Material selection, manufacturing details, some critical tolerances and used thread types are shared. Software structure for ground testing software, satellite ground station software, and satellite firmware, ground testing board firmware and concept of operations is shared in this work. Tests done on the EQM and FM model of the payload have been explained in this work. Testing logic, procedures, and their results have been explained. Tests are done to determine performance of the system, and suitability of the system to a space environment, and launch conditions. TVAC, vibration, and optical tests are explained. A failed design is also shown and explained. Testing done on the system showed that, system is indeed suitable for space craft usage, within its temperature ranges. Too high or too low temperatures results in image focus shifting, and for high temperature too much image noise. Some possible future work, and future tests are also mentioned.