Research
Focus areas within Space Systems Engineering are Miniaturization and Distributed Space Systems.
Multi-Satellite Systems
How can we measure the drift of continents to millimeter accuracy? How can we place telescopes in space which are thousands of kilometers in size? How can we provide internet to everyone on Earth, irrespective of where people live? The answer to all these questions requires Mult-Satellite Systems.
Multi-Satellite Systems are systems where several satellites work together to achieve a common goal. Depending on the goal, different concepts for such systems can be thought of, characterized by the distance between these satellites and their control accuracy. The Rendezvous and Docking of spacecraft involves small distances and requires high control accuracy. Formation Flying spacecraft achieve their mission goals typically at distances of several to many kilometers. Constellations of spacecraft often fly at distances of thousands of kilometers between individual spacecraft with low control accuracy demands.
In the area of Multi-Satellite Systems, we focus on not only technologies, but also applications, which contribute to sustainability from space, and sustainability of space.
Miniaturization
Miniaturization in space engineering aims to design and develop smaller, lighter, and more efficient spacecraft and components, enabling enhanced performance and cost-effectiveness in space missions.
Our key focus is on the development of miniaturized satellites, such as the Cubesats Delfi-C3 and Delfi-n3xt with a form factor of 10 cm and PocketQube satellites such as Delfi-PQ with a form factor as small as 5 cm. Small satellites offer numerous advantages including lower launch costs, increased accessibility to space, and the ability to deploy them in large number for Earth observation, communication, and scientific research.
Furthermore, miniaturization facilitates the integration of multiple functionalities into a single platform, maximizing the utility of limited space and resources. This capability opens up new possibilities for missions requiring diverse instrumentation, such as Planetary exploration and space-based technology demonstrations. Within the area of miniaturization, we focus on Attitude Control, Mechatronics, Propulsion, and Payload Engineering.
Our research in miniaturization is driving innovation and expanding the horizons of space exploration, promising to unlock new opportunities and push the boundaries of what is achievable in space engineering.
ADCS/GNC
The Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS) is a crucial subsystem of a spacecraft.
Propulsion
Propulsive capabilities would enable nano-satellite platforms to engage in a wider range of missions.
Mechatronics
New space systems require a reliable and precise movement of parts or entire sub-systems.