MIT KitCube Lunar Orbiter
An outside view of the spacecraft highlighting the structure, thrusters, and deployable solar panel.
The inside of the spacecraft highlighting the large fuel tank, communication systems, power system, and avionics.
A meshed 3D model to be used for structural FEA. Note the design has changed from the earlier rendered pictures.
An outside view of the spacecraft highlighting the structure, thrusters, and deployable solar panel.
MIT KitCube
2016 - 2017
KitCube is MIT's entry to NASA's CubeQuest Challenge, a $5.5M competition to earn a launch spot on the SLS and develop small satellite capabilities from the moon and beyond. KitCube is a 6U cubesat developed by MIT and Project Selene.
The small size of CubeSats creates many design challenges if they are deployed for interplanetary missions, especially for the power, communications, propulsion, thermal, and attitude control subsystems. To overcome these challenges, KitCube will use a deployable solar panel for additional power generation. a never-before-flown green mono propellant system, and will be the first small satellite to demonstrate optical communication from the moon. The spacecraft is also equipped with a star tracker and reaction wheels for 3-axis control, and custom designed structures and avionics.
I serve as the lead structural engineer for KitCube. My responsibilties include mechanical design, systems integration, finite element analysis, testing, and verification. In addition, I serve as the chief and system engineer for KitCube, working as the technical decision maker and requirements manager.
I am excited to further the development of small satellites which will have amazing cost-saving and mission capabilties for the future of space exploration!
Due to ITAR restrictions, I cannot provide the design documentation.
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More information can be found here: