CanSat: design, development, and deployment of open source weather monitoring nano-satellite

Abstract

Environmental monitoring and educational accessibility face significant challenges due to the complexity and high cost of traditional satellite systems. Addressing these issues requires a cost-effective solution that enables comprehensive study and intervention to improve environmental conditions. In this paper, we introduce CanSat, a compact satellite designed for educational and research purposes, utilizing off-the-shelf components and a 3D-printed frame to streamline operations and focus on critical processes such as modeling and communication. Equipped with a microcontroller (Esp32) and an RF communication (LoRa Module). CanSat efficiently processes and transmits data, including real-time video, temp, and %RH (% Relative humidity), to ground stations. The CanSat's performance was observed through successful data transmission and global accessibility of data visualization and analysis. The results indicated reliable operation, with data visualization and analysis accessible worldwide through customized web pages and real-time tracking capabilities, demonstrating CanSat's potential as a user-friendly and cost-effective platform for near-space exploration