MKI

The project 'Multi-functional integration of miniaturized satellite components for increased payload capacity of pico-satellites' deals with the research and development of satellite components for CubeSats.
Combining satellite components to form compact modules shall increase the possible payload capacities of pico-satellites. Three key components-solar cells, a magnetic coil, and a sun sensor-were merged successfully to a multi-functional component in previous studies.

Based on this previous success, a higher degree of integration will be achieved by further developments while simultaneously optimizing the individual components. Therefore, basic studies on the integration of a patch antenna and a novel fluid-dynamic actuator are undertaken. Special attention is paid to the possible interaction processes and the attainable degree of miniaturization of the individual components. This research serves the goal of creating a system of highly efficient
multifunctional modules to increase the payload capacity for pico-satellites.