Space Platforms Research Articles

Navigating the Virtual Environment

In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the intersection of learning spaces and technology presents unprecedented opportunities to enhance student experiences. This poster highlights the effective use of 360-degree technology to create immersive digital learning experiences across various STEM disciplines in an Australian University. This poster demonstrates the implementation of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles in virtual laboratory tours. Our 360-degree virtual tours embody UDL's core principles (Meyer et al., 2014) by offering multiple means of engagement through immersive experiences, representation via diverse media formats (textual overlays, audible descriptions, graphical elements, and interactive hotspots). By adhering to digital accessibility guidelines (Ismailov & Chiu, 2022), it ensures that our virtual laboratory inductions cater to a wide range of learning preferences and needs, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of STEM education for diverse student populations. Traditional induction processes are often delivered face-to-face, facing challenges like time constraints, safety concerns, and limited accessibility. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the need for flexible, remote learning solutions (Rapanta et al., 2020). 360-degree virtual tours overcome barriers by immersing students in a digital environment, allowing them to become familiar with procedures before entering physical space (Tan & Tan, 2021). This technology also supports dynamic learning environments, enhancing teaching effectiveness and student engagement (Christopoulos et al., 2018). The effectiveness of 360-degree virtual tours has been demonstrated across various areas, from hospitality education to construction safety training (Pham et al., 2018; Patiar et al., 2017). Virtual tours offer numerous benefits, including cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and enhanced engagement. They also support authentic, experiential learning without time or location constraints, potentially improving knowledge retention and attitudes toward learning (Cardona et al., 2023). A key benefit of 360-degree technology is its web-based implementation, making experiences accessible across a wide range of devices and operating systems. While implementation may require some initial investment in hardware and expertise, the availability of consumer-grade tools and simple workflows makes adoption increasingly feasible for educators (Tan & Tan, 2021). This poster outlines the process of developing, implementing, and evaluating 360-degree virtual tours. The development phase began with the implementation of virtual tours in ten laboratories with large enrollments. Using specialised cameras (Insta360 X3), we captured spherical photographs of these laboratories, allowing students to virtually explore as if physically present. To enhance interactivity and educational value, we integrated various elements such as hotspots, videos, and quizzes using SharePoint Space and H5P platforms. The implementation phase involved incorporating these virtual tours into the online laboratory induction process. We seamlessly integrated the tours with existing course management systems to ensure easy access for students. For evaluation, we focused on qualitative assessment methods to gain insights into student experiences and perceptions on aspects such as ease of navigation, perceived realism, and overall utility of the virtual tours. This assessment was conducted through surveys and informal discussions, offering valuable feedback on the virtual tours' effectiveness in preparing students for physical laboratory work.

Storm Classification and Dynamic Targeting for a Smart Ice Cloud Sensing Satellite

Smart Ice Cloud Sensing (SMICES) is a small-sat concept in which a radar intelligently targets ice storms based on information collected by a look-ahead radiometer. Often, space observations are performed by continuously collecting data from an instrument aimed at nadir (e.g., directly below the space platform). However, if the platform has the ability to assess science utility of features that will be overflown, an intelligent measurement scheme can improve science return. In the case of SMICES, power constraints and the rarity of storms mean that with blind nadir targeting SMICES would collect a limited amount of ice-storm radar data. The work proposed acquires measurements to maximize acquired high-interest storms while concurrently collecting a background sampling of all features. This is accomplished through two steps: storm classification and dynamic targeting. For classification, we describe a multistep use of machine learning and digital twin of Earth’s atmosphere to create a classifier. We discuss an autonomous data labeling pipeline used to train five different models to identify storms in tropical and nontropical regions and assess the results and impact of expected noise. For dynamic targeting, six algorithms, ranging from “blind” to more selective, are described and evaluated on their improvement over “blind” targeting.

Conductive paths generation using topology optimization for worst-case thermal design in space systems

Designing thermal systems for space platforms is a challenging task due to the wide variability in thermal conditions during the orbit and the strict constraints imposed by other subsystems. Several strategies have been developed to address these challenges while minimizing the thermal control subsystem’s signature, encompassing different algorithms optimize components positions in the platform. When relocation is not possible, thermal couplings between components can be modified to enhance heat transfer and achieve more uniform temperature distribution. To design optimal thermal paths in 2D space structures, in this paper a topology optimization framework based on the Heaviside Projection Method is introduced, using the Lumped Parameter Method (LPM) and taking the radiation heat transfer into account. The algorithm’s performance is tested on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) by designing an optimal copper layer to meet specific thermal requirements under both extreme hot and cold conditions. Results show a significant improvement in thermal compliance for all components with the addition of this high-conductivity layer. Additionally, a reduction method is introduced to transfer the material distribution from the optimization to a coarser mesh of any size, which is useful to facilitate its implementation in existing software, where a large number of degrees of freedom can be a limitation.

Spacecraft protection against man-made and natural space debris particles

Classification of space objects according to their size, mass and density is presented. Methods developed for assessing the degree of near-Earth space contamination by space debris are reviewed briefly. General principles of providing passive and active protection for spacecraft are analyzed. Based on the developed model of particle motion under the conditions of electrodynamic armor, the areas of its efficient application are specified. It is shown that the current level of development of structural materials and high-pulse energy storage devices does not fully ensure the possibility of their full-scale efficient use in spacecraft protection systems. It is stated that it is necessary to develop additional measures to ensure the space flight safety, for example, by developing service spacecraft on the basis of unified space platforms, the primary purpose of which would be the active removal of space debris.

Research on PV array reconstruction and Full-cycle maximum power point tracking technology of space solar power station

Space solar power station is an energy system that converts solar energy into electrical energy in the space environment and then transmits it to the space platform or ground using wireless power transmission technology. To improve the power generation and system efficiency of the space solar power station, an adaptive and reconfigurable photovoltaic array with multi-configuration is proposed, which can avoid large attenuation of the output power and efficiency of the photovoltaic array when the photovoltaic modules have a fault occurs or the receive different irradiation intensity. Then, according to the orbit area and light condition of the space solar power station, the operation mode are divided in detail. Furthermore, a novel full-cycle and multi-mode GMPPT (maximum power point tracking) strategy is proposed. Compared to the single mode MPPT, the control strategy has shorter response time, faster convergence and higher tracking accuracy. Through the above research, the output power and photoelectric conversion efficiency of space solar power station can be significantly improved.

Uptake and engagement of a clinically moderated digital peer support platform to support the mental well-being older adults: a qualitative investigation.

The uptake of traditional mental health services among older adults remains low. Digital peer support offers older adults a resource for engaging with others to independently support their mental well-being. This qualitative study explored the uptake and engagement of a clinically moderated digital peer support platform (Breathing Space) for older adults with depressive symptoms and alcohol use concerns. Semi-structured interviews with 30 participants aged 60-80 years explored participants' uptake and engagement with Breathing Space, a novel, moderated, private, and anonymous peer support platform. Data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis and are discussed with reference to the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology2. Three themes were constructed to characterize participants' experiences: (i) navigating the complexities of peer-peer online engagement; (ii) the function of anonymity in online connection; and (iii) experiences of app features and content. Future development of digital peer support for older adults would benefit from the following: (i) co-design with older adults; (ii) providing choice over anonymity and increased options for interacting with peers; (iii) streamlining the basic functionality with popular platforms; (iv) providing options for users to curate their digital experience; and (v) providing telephone support for troubleshooting technical difficulties. Future research should explore the use of digital peer support among older adults who experience social exclusion challenges.

Enabling High-Power Conditioning and High-Voltage Bus Integration Using Series-Connected DC Transformers in Spacecrafts

This article proposes a photovoltaic power processor for high-voltage and high-power distribution bus, between 300 V and 900 V, to be used in future space platforms like large space stations or lunar bases. Solar arrays with voltages higher than 100 V are not available for space application, being necessary to apply power conversion techniques. The idea behind this is to use series-connected zero-voltage and zero-current unregulated and isolated DC converters to achieve high bus voltage from the existing solar arrays. Bus regulation is then achieved through low-frequency hysteretic control. Topology description, semiconductor selection, design procedure, simulation and experimental validation, including tests in vacuum and partial pressures, are presented.

Ultrasensitive acoustic graphene plasmons in a graphene-transition metal dichalcogenide heterostructure: Strong plasmon–phonon coupling and wavelength sensitivity enhanced by a metal screen

Acoustic plasmons in graphene exhibit strong confinement induced by a proximate metal surface and hybridize with phonons of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) when these materials are combined in a van der Waals heterostructure, thus forming screened graphene plasmon–phonon polaritons (SGPPPs), a type of acoustic mode. While SGPPPs are shown to be very sensitive to the dielectric properties of the environment, enhancing the SGPPPs coupling strength in realistic heterostructures is still challenging. Here we employ the quantum electrostatic heterostructure model, which builds upon the density functional theory calculations for monolayers, to show that the use of a metal as a substrate for graphene-TMD heterostructures (i) vigorously enhances the coupling strength between acoustic plasmons and the TMD phonons, and (ii) markedly improves the sensitivity of the plasmon wavelength on the structural details of the host platform in real space, thus allowing one to use the effect of environmental screening on acoustic plasmons to probe the structure and composition of a van der Waals heterostructure down to the monolayer resolution.

A comprehensive study to facilitate Student Space platform with collaborative learning

The Student Space Virtual Study Groups Platform is a groundbreaking solution designed to transform collaborative learning for students, addressing challenges in forming and sustaining study groups. This online platform integrates advanced technology to create a user-friendly environment, featuring an intuitive interface, dynamic group formation with smart algorithms, real-time collaboration through video conferencing and document editing, centralized resource sharing, and smart scheduling tools. Student Space aims to overcome the limitations of traditional study groups, offering an inclusive and adaptable virtual space for students to connect, collaborate, and excel academically. Anticipated impacts include improved academic performance and the creation of a vibrant academic community. Ongoing enhancements, such as integration with Learning Management Systems, a mobile app for on-the-go collaboration, and improved AI-driven matching algorithms, are planned for the future.

Governance And Digital Transformation: Analisis Ruang Kerja Virtual Melalui Perspektif E-Government Pada Pemerintahan Provinsi Bali

Digital transformation in the government sector is a form of public service innovation. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, various digital-based innovations have emerged as solutions to the problems that occur. This effort was made to provide services to the community during the pandemic. One of them is the presence of a virtual office as a work space platform that supports efficiency in providing public services. Virtual offices are a manifestation of an electronic-based government system (SPBE), administering government by utilizing technology, information, and communication. This system exists to realize effective, efficient, transparent, and accountable government governance. This article focuses on reviewing virtual offices as a digital-based public service from an e-government perspective. The study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques through literature studies, such as books, journal articles, websites, and other documents related to the research topic. The results of this research show that virtual offices are a form of government governance through digital transformation. A review from an e-government perspective shows that this system has demonstrated key elements in achieving successful e-government implementation. Among them are support, capacity, and value. Apart from that, the concept of dynamic governance shows that the virtual office is a form of transformational government governance that is able to answer the challenges of technological and information development. This supports dynamic government towards good governance.

Optimizing Space Telescopes’ Thermal Performance through Uncertainty Analysis: Identification of Critical Parameters and Shaping Test Strategy Development

The integration of uncertainty analysis methodologies allows for improving design efficiency, particularly in the context of instruments that demand precise pointing accuracy, such as space telescopes. Focusing on the VINIS Earth observation telescope developed by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC), this paper reports an uncertainty analysis on a thermal model aimed at improving cost savings in the future testing phases. The primary objective was to identify critical parameters impacting thermal performance and reduce overdesign. Employing the Statistical Error Analysis (SEA) method across several operational scenarios, the research identifies key factors, including the Earth’s infrared temperature and albedo, and the spacecraft’s attitude and environmental conditions, as the variables with major influences on the system’s thermal performance. Ultimately, the findings suggest that uncertainty-based analysis is a potent tool for guiding thermal control system design in space platforms, promoting efficiency and reliability. This methodology not only provides a framework for optimizing thermal design and testing in space missions but also ensures that instruments like the VINIS telescope maintain optimal operating temperatures in diverse space environments, thereby increasing mission robustness and enabling precise resource allocation.

Three-dimensional space and time mapping reveals soil organic matter decreases across anthropogenic landscapes in the Netherlands

For restoring soil health and mitigating climate change, information of soil organic matter is needed across space, depth and time. Here we developed a statistical modelling platform in three-dimensional space and time as a new paradigm for soil organic matter monitoring. Based on 869 094 soil organic matter observations from 339,231 point locations and the novel use of environmental covariates variable in three-dimensional space and time, we predicted soil organic matter and its uncertainty annually at 25 m resolution between 0–2 m depth from 1953–2022 in the Netherlands. We predicted soil organic matter decreases of more than 25% in peatlands and 0.1–0.3% in cropland mineral soils, but increases between 10–25% on reclaimed land due to land subsidence. Our analysis quantifies the substantial variations of soil organic matter in space, depth, and time, highlighting the inadequacy of evaluating soil organic matter dynamics at point scale or static mapping at a single depth for policymaking.

Thermal Analysis of AlainSat-1: A 3U Cubesat for Earth Observation

AlainSat-1 is a remote sensing CubeSat carrying earth observation payloads developed by student teams from three international universities. Planned for launch in 2023 it is a direct result from the collaborative effort between the IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society (GRSS) and the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) at UAE University. CubeSats are popular among the research and academic communities as a space platform from which to perform related research and academic work connected to space technologies due to their compact size, shorter development time, and relatively low cost. However, because most CubeSats are built using off-the-shelf components, their capacity to resist the harsh environments of space must be proven. Aside from ensuring that structural criteria are met, thermal analysis is critical for ensuring that components or payloads stay functioning in extreme hot or cold environments. The thermal analysis results of AlainSat-1’s finite element model (FEM) functioning under the projected thermal environment associated to its mission are presented in this study. Preliminary results from the analysis using SIEMENS NX show that temperature measurements are within an acceptable range. However, more modification of the simulated environment and FEM in terms of mesh sizes and radiative and conductive thermal couplings is needed before conclusive results may be obtained. The approved simulated results and parameters will be tested experimentally in a Thermal Vacuum Chamber. In addition, challenges identified throughout the analysis and their remedies are discussed.

The Impact of Social Media on Consumer Sentiment

With the wide use of network media, consumers’ information acquisition and communication methods have undergone significant changes. Network media not only provides them with a fast and efficient way to obtain information, but also provides them with a broader social space and communication platform. Therefore, the popularity of social media has brought some negative effects, such as low mood and depression among consumers. This paper will first study the impact of social media operation strategies on consumer sentiment. Secondly, the author will examine how social media self-control affects mood, which includes how users control their emotions and behaviors on social media, and the impact of this self-control on consumer mood. This paper will discuss and study through the research methods of psychology and sociology. Finally, this study aims to analyze the problem of information overload between social media and consumer sentiment by focusing on the comments made by consumers on social media. At the end of the study, the research results need to be summarized and analyzed in order to provide useful references for social media platforms to manage consumer emotions, so as to provide useful references for lawmakers, academics and practitioners.

Миссия к Марсу на базе универсальной малогабаритной платформы с ЭРДУ

In the preprint, the concept of a mission to Mars is developed based on the micro-class space platform, a standardized spacecraft with a dry mass of no more than 100 kg equipped with a unified electric propulsion system for orbital maneuvering and attitude control. The spacecraft bus design and the possible payload are described in detail. The preliminary flight dynamics analysis proves the feasibility of the proposed concept.

Integrated Thermal Control System for Space Platform and Fractionated Payload

Integrated Thermal Control System for Space Platform and Fractionated Payload

Electro-Codeposition of Composite Materials for Enhanced Thermal and Electrical Properties

State of the art cryocoolers, high powered electronic systems, semiconductor backplanes, and space platforms require next generation high conductivity composite materials that can reduce product weight while improving performance. To meet this need, Faraday Technology with the help of Universities, National Labs, and industrial partners is developing a scalable electro-codeposition method to produce high conductivity hybrid graphene/copper composite materials. Specifically, this talk will highlight two activities ongoing at Faraday and demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating either composite or laminated graphene-copper hybrid foils or direct printed composite nanowires via a pulse electro-codeposition approach. These activities indicated these composite materials can achieve a greater than 50% reduction in sheet resistance, a ~50% increase in mechanical strain, and a 100% increase in thermal conductivity compared to Cu foils. We will also discuss the opportunity to produce a wide range of material shapes by enabling a direct print apparatus that combines x,y,z control methods with an electro-codeposition printhead. If successful we envision that method to print next generation composite materials like ‘covetics’ that have the potential to meet many of the electronics and space community’s needs by enabling in space structural repairs, fabrication of new electronic components or sensors, or be utilized as heat exchanger composite materials. Finally, this activity also identified commercial partners interested in integrating these next generation into high powered electronics like laser diodes or invertors for electric vehicles.Acknowledgements: Faraday Technology acknowledges the Department of Energy and NASA SBIR activities under Contract No. DE-SC0021676 (DOE Phase II) and 80NSSC22CA099 (NASA Phase II).

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF THE SPACE INDUSTRIAL PLATFORM. PROBLEM STATEMENT

The objective of thispaper is to formulate a complex problem of optimizing the design parameters of a space industrial platform at the conceptual design stage. The initial stage of space industrialization was the creation of space industrial platforms in Earth orbit. At present, there are works related to the implementation of a number of technological processes in outer space, which are being studied by scientists and developers. Implementation of unique technological processes in outer space allows forobtaining materials with qualita- tively new characteristics. The peculiarity of designing a space industrial platform is that there are practically no theoretical works related to the choice of platform parameters and the logic of its creation at the conceptual design stage. This stage is characterized by the fact that, apart from the general idea of the platform layout, the expected types of main service systems, some initial data, and the param- eters of the technological processes to be implemented on the p latform, there is little else known. The process of designing a new complex space system, such as an industrial platform, is a multi-level iterative and optimization process, during which its characteristics and mass production are determined and refined. The article analyzes the configurations of existing orbital stations as a prototype of space industrial platforms and determines the ranges of the main parameters of their modules. A set of parameters of technological processes in vacuum and zero gravity conditions that can be implemented on a space industrial platform is formed. The relationship between the technological and basic modules of the industrial platform is shown. The structure of a complex mathematical model of the space industrial plat- form functioning is developed. To ensure successful work at the conceptual design stage, a general statement of the problem of optimizing the mass of the space industrial platform is formulated. The minimum mass and dimensions of the space platform obtained as a result of the optimization are used to further refine the optimal parameters of the platform and, therefore, affect the formation of conditions for the implementation of the technological process. The algorithm of the sequence of operations for solving the problem of optimal design of a space industrial platform is shown in general.

Product and Pricing Strategy in the Virtual Space Platform: A Case Study of “Vuturist”

Navigating through the dynamic landscape of Virtual Platforms, this study delves into the intricacies of Market Trends and strategic positioning, with a focus on Vuturist, a participant in this competitive sector. The background of the study is anchored in the swift technological progress and shifts in consumer preferences. The research stages involve an in-depth analysis of the market, Vuturist’s offerings, and the strategic implications of emerging trends. TThe primary objective is to furnish strategic recommendations that fortify Vuturist’s sustained growth and relevance in the market. The methodology encompasses a comprehensive review of market trends, the competitive landscape, and Vuturist’s internal capabilities. The research unveils insights into the demand for customizable virtual spaces and the necessity for Technological Integration. The findings spotlight avenues for Vuturist to enhance its Product Strategy and adapt its Pricing Models to align with market expectations. This study’s scientific contribution is manifested in its in-depth analysis and strategic recommendations tailored for the virtual platform domain. By addressing the research problem and objectives, and clearly outlining the contributions to the scientific community, the research offers a holistic perspective beneficial not only for Vuturist but also for other stakeholders in the industry.

Efficient protection of polar decoders against Single Event Upsets (SEUs) on user memories

Polar codes are used in 5G systems for the transmission of control channels due to their excellent error correction capability for short sequences. CRC aided successive cancellation list (CA-SCL) decoders are commonly used in practical systems. When used in critical environments, e.g. space platforms, memories used in the polar decoder will suffer single-event upsets (SEUs) that can cause failures and disrupt communications. Therefore, the protection of polar decoders against SEUs on memories with low overhead is an important problem, especially for resource-limited on-board space systems. In this paper, efficient protection schemes are first proposed for each of the main memory components of CA-SAL decoders based on their algorithmic properties. Then FPGA implementation and hardware-based fault injection experiments are performed to evaluate the protection overhead and reliability of the proposed schemes. Experimental results show that, relative to the unprotected decoder, the reliability of the decoder is improved by more than two orders of magnitude, and the overhead of memory and computation are only about 1.26 and 1.23 times of those of unprotected decoder.