Singapore researchers to launch new 'sustainable' microsatellite to explore space - CNA

REDUCED DRAG

In addition, NTU will develop a "predictive aerodynamic model" to optimise the satellite design for reduced drag.

Researchers will evaluate different materials that can protect against atomic oxygen corrosion, and measure the plasma concentration, velocity and temperature in the ionosphere to enhance the understanding of spacecraft charging. 

"Spacecraft charging is a phenomenon where a negative charge starts to build on a satellite's surface due to hot electrons found in space, which can cause damage to electronic systems onboard the satellites," explained the organisations.

The new microsatellite is also designed to be sustainable. At the end of its operational life, its engine can be turned off and the satellite will "de-orbit" and descend to Earth within a few days.

It will eventually burn up in the atmosphere during re-entry, leaving no debris in space. 

This "passive clean-up" will help to minimise the risk of collisions in future for other VLEO spacecraft, as compared to operating at Low Earth Orbits where it is "increasingly getting overcrowded", added the news release.

Professor Lam Khin Yong, senior vice president of research at NTU, said the new microsatellite will be another milestone for Singapore and the university.

"Satellite technologies are always multidisciplinary and complex, requiring the best minds in various fields, from power systems engineering to aerodynamics and software design, to work together as a team to develop new solutions that do not exist today," he said.

Dr David Tan, executive director of the Office for Space Technology and Industry, said: "The establishment of a new consortium to develop solutions that will enable satellites to operate at very low earth orbit is testament to the diverse capabilities of Singapore’s industry and academia in developing disruptive technologies for space."

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2022-02-09 06:00:00Z
CBMie2h0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmNoYW5uZWxuZXdzYXNpYS5jb20vc2luZ2Fwb3JlL3NpbmdhcG9yZS1yZXNlYXJjaGVycy1sYXVuY2gtbmV3LXN1c3RhaW5hYmxlLW1pY3Jvc2F0ZWxsaXRlLWV4cGxvcmUtc3BhY2UtMjQ4NzMzMdIBAA