HERA CUBESAT ( Limited Participation, pls call, Due by Thanksgiving Giving ) - WIP
Executive Summary
The NASA HERA program's ArduSat system is at a pivotal point, necessitating immediate modernization to ensure readiness for Campaign 8, which is scheduled for January 2027. The current ArduSat system, built on 2019-era technology, is rapidly aging and now presents significant risks to both mission success and the achievement of educational objectives. This document details a comprehensive, two-phase implementation strategy designed to systematically upgrade the system while maintaining its operational capability throughout the process.
Purpose and Urgency
The primary goal of the modernization project is to update the ArduSat system to meet new mission requirements and to support advanced astronaut training and educational outcomes. The urgency of this update cannot be overstated: delays in modernization could compromise mission readiness, degrade the quality of astronaut training, and negatively impact educational results. The project must commence by May 19, 2025, to allow sufficient time for development, testing, and crew familiarization before the start of Campaign 8 .
Implementation Approach
Phase I: Foundational Upgrades (May 19 – August 8, 2025)
Physical Structure Requirements:
3D Printed Exoskeleton: The new structure will be fabricated using ULTEM plastic with integrated screw inserts, demonstrating advanced manufacturing and structural engineering principles.
Component Mounting System: A modular mounting system with adjustable risers will be implemented, showcasing modular design and spatial organization in spacecraft engineering.
Modular Skin System: Removable external skins with various surface characteristics will be used to illustrate the importance of thermal and dust management in space environments.
Electronic Hardware & Software Requirements:
Arduino-Compatible System: The system will use USA-sourced components for the main processing unit and sensors, providing hands-on experience with flight computer systems and spacecraft electronics.
Sensor Integration Platform: The platform will support multiple environmental sensors with plug-and-play capability and a menu-driven GUI for sensor selection, demonstrating sensor technology and data collection methodologies.
Arduino SD Drive: The system will be capable of writing sensor data to an SD drive for later retrieval .
Phase II: Advanced Features and Educational Scenarios (August 9 – November 27, 2025)
Advanced Features:
Enhanced Communication: The system will be upgraded with Bluetooth and IR communication capabilities, teaching principles of space communication and network establishment.
Conclusion
The document underscores the critical and time-sensitive nature of the ArduSat modernization project. Immediate approval and action are essential to ensure the system is fully upgraded and operational by Thanksgiving 2025, thereby safeguarding mission readiness and the success of Campaign 8 .