CubeSats are Fascinating Learning Tools for Space CubeSats are miniature satellites typically powered by Raspberry Pis or microcontrollers. They offer an accessible way to explore space technology, education, and experiment with hardware in challenging environments. --- What is a CubeSat? A CubeSat is a small satellite, often standardized in units ("U"), where 1U = 10x10x10 cm. Sizes vary; examples include: 1U CubeSats (smallest standard size) 2U (20 cm tall) Larger configurations like 12U (e.g., Mark Rober's SatGus) Benefits of standardization: Use of pre-built space-rated components (e.g., aluminum frames, power systems) Ability to customize with Raspberry Pi computers, antennas, cameras, and sensors CubeSats are cost-effective compared to traditional satellites: Satellite building costs can be just a few thousand dollars Launch costs on rideshares start around $85,000 Deployment challenges include tight volume constraints and need for innovative antenna designs like flexible tape antennas. --- Who Builds CubeSats? CubeSats impose strict constraints: under 2 kg, max 1.8 W continuous power, remote operation. Engineering challenges include power budget, small volume, thermal control in space, software security. They serve as highly complex, compact electronic systems comparable to Swiss watches. Examples of CubeSat projects: Build a CubeSat by Manuel: open-source hardware with documented development via weather balloon tests. CubeSat T.E.M.P.E.S.T. by Ethos Labs (Tim Fowler): a platform with intentional security vulnerabilities used for teaching space cybersecurity. These projects often use low-power microcontrollers or single-board computers to maximize functionality within tight constraints. Commercial kits and educational projects help reduce complexity for beginners. --- Build Your Own CubeSat Two notable educational kits: MySat Kit (Ukraine) Powered by ESP32 microcontroller Includes camera, sensors (light, gyroscope, accelerometer), barometer, LEDs, and clock Off-the-shelf components, not flight-ready but great for learning Price: $130 (basic) to $300 (with solar panels) RASCube (Australia) Developed by Robinson Space to teach students about satellites Components include power system, flight control computer, radio with GPS More robust; V2 version has flown on a Falcon 9 rocket Price: $430-$600 including teacher resources and lesson plans --- CubeSat Projects and Launches SilverSat: a student-built CubeSat carrying a Raspberry Pi Zero, launching NET ("No Earlier Than") Sunday at 6:11 p.m. ET on a Falcon 9 rocket. Project started in 2017, supported by NASA's CubeSat Launch Initiative Launch was delayed due to transport damage of cargo module Uses amateur radio and SSDV broadcasts for communication Tracking satellites like CubeSats can be done from home with inexpensive equipment (~$100) such as SDRs and antennas. --- Enthusiasm and Community The CubeSat community is characterized by infectious enthusiasm, collaboration, and commitment to education. Many projects, including Build a CubeSat, are open source and publicly documented. CubeSats allow students and hobbyists hands-on experience with space technology, from hardware to software. There are valuable resources including videos and courses on space hardware and security. --- Further Reading Suggestions I took down Starlink (but I haven't cancelled) Starlink's current problem is capacity Getting my amateur radio (ham) license --- Related Tags `cubesat | space | raspberry pi | video | youtube | microcontroller |