Processor, Payload, and Power Subsystem Development of the MISSat-1 CubeSat

This thesis details the development and programming of the processor subsystem, camera payload, and power subsystem of the Mississippi Imaging Space Satellite (MISSat-1). An overview of the hardware and software considerations necessary for the processor subsystem is discussed. An explanation of microcontroller uses as well as real time operating system fundamentals is also presented as it relates to MISSat-1. The subsystem deals with varieties of peripheral integration and communication standards among devices. The camera graphical user interface (GUI) was expanded with the addition of functions that improve CubeSat image handling. Additionally, image processing techniques and algorithms are considered to improve CubeSat images. This work continues the camera payload work undertaken by University of Mississippi electrical engineering students from previous years. This paper will then discuss the design and analysis completed thus far for the power subsystem of the MISSat-1. Such topics will include an in-depth solar panel investigation, which will lead to the selection of the solar panels that will be used on the MISSat-1. The solar panel selection, along with the other chosen subsystem components, will allow for the formation of the power budget, which shows the breakdown of power usage for each subsystem. The power budget will then be developed into a Matlab GUI. Finally, the power budget will be further analyzed by comparing it to other satellite projects

Students' participation in collaborative research should be recognised

Letter to the editor