Abstract:

This paper mainly introduces the development and prospect of the “Aoxiang” Series CubeSats in Northwestern Polytechnical University. On this basis, the characteristics and applications of the CubeSats are introduced. Northwestern Polytechnical University has successfully launched the world’s first 12U CubeSat “Aoxiang” which has carried out the experiment of extra-atmospheric polarization navigation technology for the first time. It marks a new breakthrough in the CubeSat technology. For the first time in the world, the QB50 “Aoxiang 1” has been set up to measure the atmospheric parameters in the low thermosphere. The development of the standardized structure, attitude control system, power supply system, on-board computer, communication system, deployment pod and other systems of the “Aoxiang” Series CubeSats is summarized. The flywheel, magnetorquer and polarization sensor designed in house are introduced. Based on the technology of on-orbit assembly, formation flying and multi-satellite deployment, the applications of “Aoxiang” Series Cubesats are prospected. It will be of significance to explore the flexible, high-precision and long-life CubeSats.

Key words:  CubeSat, Micro-nano satellite, Attitude control, Satellite applications, Polarization