Mission Expectations
• As Planned:– Full end-to-end test of Akoya-Bandit
imaging and dedicated comm subsystems– Take, store, and transmit images over
900MHz and 2.4GHz links
• As Executed (Due to package changes)– Input images from cameras to FCB and
downlink via Microhard– Observe satisfactory thermal/vacuum
performance of components
Summary of Package Changes
• Elimination of Atmel as processor– Bootloader corruption– Resulted in loss of temp sensors and heaters
• Atmel used as 5V power regulator– Powered 8 LEDs
• Bypass of 900MHz video TX/RX– 12V power connection used to power Atmel/LEDs
• Simplification of power board– Malfunction of 5V line
• Possibly resulted in loss of 3.3V line, thus accelerometer and digital memory
• Removal of onboard data storage– Incompatible power requirements
Results• One confirmed and one suspected contact
– No telemetry data or pictures received• Link budget• Ground ops difficulties• Possible component failure
– Cold: unlikely, had been running hot– Batteries: popped out before whip?
• Excellent structural performance– No damage, excepting one dent in corner– Batteries loose, all other components
restrained
Image data recorded post-mission verifies system functionality.
Lessons Learned
• Microhard radio and Atmel bootloader corruption
• Linear regulators MUST NOT be installed in parallel
• Establishing link more difficult than expected
• Must have documentation and circuit diagrams available to aid team communication
Conclusions• Some programs, components, and procedures are
not mature– Power board redesign
– New Atmel programming procedure
– Improve component and procedure documentation
• Ground testing was incomplete for the complexity of the mission– Link budget verification
– Full-up system tests after modifications
– Software verification
• COTS equipment and basic design are functional– Proceed with satellite development