Want to build your own satellite and launch it into space? It's easier
than you may think. The first in a series of four books, this
do-it-yourself guide shows you the essential steps needed to design a
base picosatellite platform--complete with a solar-powered
computer-controlled assembly--tough enough to withstand a rocket launch
and survive in orbit for three months.
Whether you want to conduct scientific experiments, run engineering
tests, or present an orbital art project, you'll select basic components
such as an antenna, radio transmitter, solar cells, battery, power bus,
processor, sensors, and an extremely small picosatellite chassis. This
entertaining series takes you through the entire process--from planning
to launch.
- Prototype and fabricate printed circuit boards to handle your payload
- Choose a prefab satellite kit, complete with solar cells, power
system, and on-board computer
- Calculate your power budget--how much you need vs. what the solar
cells collect
- Select between the Arduino or BasicX-24 onboard processors, and
determine how to use the radio transmitter and sensors
- Learn your launch options, including the providers and cost required
- Use milestones to keep your project schedule in motion