Students at Montana State University (MSU) are deeply involved in the meticulous preparation of their satellites and instruments for upcoming space missions. Under the leadership of David Klumpar, the director of MSU's Space Science and Engineering Laboratory, these students are rigorously testing their designs in various challenging environments to ensure optimal performance.
In June, the team successfully launched a sensor aimed at measuring Earth's magnetic field. This sensor was carried aboard a rocket that ascended to an altitude of 10,000 feet before safely returning to the Nevada desert. This launch served as a vital test to confirm the sensor's operational capabilities in real-world conditions.
Looking forward, the team is set to transport the Explorer-1 (Prime) satellite to Logan, Utah, in September. At the Space Dynamics Laboratory, the satellite will undergo a series of critical tests, including exposure to extreme temperatures, vacuum conditions, and intense vibrations. These assessments are crucial for qualifying the satellite for its intended space missions.
Once the Explorer-1 (Prime) satellite is fully prepared, it will be sent to California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo for final adjustments before its anticipated launch in April. This satellite was originally constructed by MSU students to honor the 50th anniversary of the first successful U.S. satellite launch.
Magnetometer Development
In addition to the satellite work, MSU students are developing a magnetometer board, which is expected to be integrated into the SpaceBuoy satellite in the near future. The magnetometer plays a crucial role in detecting Earth's magnetic field, which is essential for determining the satellite's orientation in space.
The team participated in the ARLISS Project, a collaborative initiative with Stanford University and other educational institutions, to test their magnetometer. This project allowed them to fly the magnetometer on a rocket measuring approximately 10 feet in height and six inches in diameter. The test took place in the Black Rock Desert, with funding and launch vehicles provided by the Association of Experimental Rocketry of the Pacific (AERO-Pac).
Field Testing in the Desert
David Klumpar, along with colleagues Scotty Kratochvil and Pat O'Hara from MSU, ventured to the Black Rock Desert for the ARLISS test. Utilizing GPS and visual markers, they successfully located the launch site amid a cluster of RVs and tents. Despite facing strong winds, they set up their tent and prepared their instrument package for the upcoming flight.
Encouraged by Klumpar to push their boundaries, the team secured a video camera to their package using Velcro, duct tape, and zip ties. The package, which included the magnetometer and a GPS system, was launched using a black powder charge and solid rocket fuel. After reaching its peak altitude, it descended slowly, allowing the team to retrieve it for further analysis.
Data Analysis and Future Prospects
Upon returning to MSU, the team meticulously analyzed the data collected during the flight to verify the magnetometer's functionality for the SpaceBuoy project. This satellite, comparable in size to a wedding cake, is part of a proposal selected by the Air Force Research Laboratory University NanoSat Program.
The dedicated efforts of MSU students in testing and preparing these instruments underscore their commitment to advancing technology in space exploration. By tackling challenges head-on and conducting comprehensive testing, they are paving the way for the success of their future space missions.