SPACE HAUC

SPACE HAUC CubeSat graphic

"Visualization" model of the proposed SPACE HAUC CubeSat satellite based on the initial prototype of the structural fame. We are using it to better convey the size to students, faculty, and more. It features laser-printed acrylic structural members (made in the MakerSpace), plastic end caps printed on a student-built 3D printer, and commercial-off-the-shelf aluminum rails. It also contains recycled solar cells mounted to a foam-core substrate acting as "solar panels" locked in the deployed position.

The Lowell Center for Space Science and Technology encourages participation from students of all levels of study. Currently, undergraduate students are preparing to launch SPACE HAUC (Science Program Around Communications Engineering with High-Achieving Undergraduate Cadres). The SPACE HAUC satellite is based on the CubeSat model used worldwide for low-Earth orbit space research. SPACE HAUC’s goal is to demonstrate the practicality of communicating at high data rates, which may influence future CubeSat applications such as controlling formations of satellites or interplanetary exploration missions.

SPACE HAUC was chosen as one of 47 university proposals for funding by NASA in a nationwide competitive process under its Undergraduate Student Instrument Project (USIP).

What is a CubeSat?

A CubeSat is a type of miniaturized satellite used for space research. The CubeSat standard defines a 1-unit or "1U" CubeSat as a 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm nanosatellite weighing no more than 1.33 kg. CubeSats can be 1U, 2U, 3U, or even 6U, with increasing mass allowances. They are ferried into space as secondary payloads and then spring-deployed into orbit.

Explore the SPACE HAUC Project

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