SPUDNIK-1
PHOTODIODE TEST
A key component of how the satellite determines which way it is facing is the sun sensor, which uses photodiodes. The photodiode calibration testing done this year was to determine how closely the photodiodes can predict the direction to a particular source of light. They function much like small solar panels, able to supply more power the stronger the light signal it’s receiving. The highest signal is reached when the light is shining directly at the surface of the photodiode, and the more the light moves toward the side of it, the lower the signal gets. Setting a light at specific angles and measuring the response gives a clear indication of how well the photodiode can predict the direction to a particular light source.
COMMAND & CONTROL TESTING
REACTION WHEEL TEST
A balancing test was done with the reaction wheels to minimize vibration, which can affect other components within the CubeSat. To balance the reaction wheel, we can alter the centre of mass by changing the position of setscrews along its perimeter. The wheel is mounted to a small metal beam and then devices called accelerometers record the vibration of the beam as the wheel spins. We can then analyze the data of the beam vibration for each setscrew position to determine when the reaction wheel is balanced.
MAGNETORQUER TEST
Since the magnetorquer's control SpudNik-1 by aligning with the Earth's magnetic field, we tested them to ensure they will do just that. The magnetorquers were attached to a small battery which supplied the current for it to create its magnetic field. The battery and magnetorquer were then suspended on a string above a compass that was placed in alignment with magnetic North. We recorded the magnetorquer from above using a GoPro to see if it would settle at the correct position with its tip pointed towards the North pole.