Thinsat Program


The Thinsat Progarm

This NSE course is a low cost, short term program designed to increase student engagement and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related fields. This will be achieved using the ThinSat, a small satellite capable of transmitting data from low earth orbit.

The ThinSat Program sets a new standard for STEM related academics in the space industry. Students from middle school to the university level will develop satellite hardware, test sensor components with low and high altitude balloon flights, analyze data, and launch an actual payload into space.

 

Heritage

On April 17, 2019, a 60 ThinSat constellation launched off the Antares NG-11 mission on route to International Space Station. Over 400 middle and high school students helped in developing and building the satellites.

 

How it works

Stage 1: Introduction of sensors and development of a sensor-board. Students conduct flight operations and launch a low-altitude balloon with the FlatSat attached as a data transmitting payload. Students collect and analyze data.

Phase 2: Students develop a payload similar to the final product and integrate it with a 3D printed Engineering Model of the Thinsat, which will allows for realistic ThinSat testing and verification of data transmission. The Engineering Models are sent to a centralized location for a high altitude balloon flight.

Phase 3: Students use data collected in phase 2 and work towards finishing a spaceworthy payload. This payload is then sent to Twiggs Space Lab for testing before being integration into a Containerized Satellite Dispenser (CSD) and prepared for launch. The ThinSats are deployed during a cargo resupply mission heading to the ISS. They are then released from the second stage of the Antares rocket into Extreme Low Earth Orbit (ELEO), transmitting data for approximately five days before deorbit and burning upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere

 

CONTACT US

Want more information about our ThinSats? Were happy to help! Use the button below for more information or go to our contact us page so we can help answer any questions you may have.

 

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