The science and engineering payloads and experiments on sunsat

Abstract

This paper describes the science payloads and experiments of the SUNSAT microsatellite which is to be launched in 1998. A very modular satellite mechanical structure has enabled the addition of additional experiments at a late stage of the program. The design and performance measurements of the engineering and technology payloads (a 10m resolution imager, an accurate ADCS system, a DSP processor board, gravity gradient boom and the solar panels) are reported. The science payloads —including a precision GPS receiver, laser retro-reflectors, magnetometer, and various school experiments — are described, indicating that a very complex microsatellite was developed as the first venture into space by a South African university.