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Semester Projects
2023
Embark on an exciting journey with the EPFL Spacecraft team! Our semester projects offer you the unique chance to apply your academic knowledge to real-world challenges in spacecraft design and exploration. Step into the frontier of space technology, and shape the future of space travel with us!
System engineering
Model Based Systems Engineering for mission’s Phase B - Already taken
Semester project
Section : STI, Minor in Space Tech or System Eng.
Description:
In this project, you will join the CHESS mission at the end of Phase B, and you will contribute in bringing the mission to the next milestone, the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) in December. To achieve this goal, you will need to focus on different tasks, mainly the Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and Risk Analysis. The ICDs are key to the CHESS mission. They define how the different components, subsystems of the satellite interact with each other to fulfill the mission’s objectives. The higher level architecture and requirements have been defined, we now need your help to dive into the specifics. The Risk Analysis identifies the possible failures of the system, and it defines strategies to mitigate the causes and effects.
Tasks:
- Familiarize yourself with the mission. As a system engineer, it is your responsibility to be very well-informed and be able to answer most questions or find the answers.
- Prepare all the documentation for the PDR.
- Communicate with members from the other poles and universities to get information on the evolution of the subsystems' development.
- Make relevant design trade-offs.
Background and skills:
- Space Technologies minor
- System Engineering minor
- Or similar knowledge, System Engineering mentality
In this project, you will join the CHESS mission at the end of Phase B, and you will contribute in bringing the mission to the next milestone, the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) in December. To achieve this goal, you will need to focus on different tasks, mainly the Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and Risk Analysis. The ICDs are key to the CHESS mission. They define how the different components, subsystems of the satellite interact with each other to fulfill the mission’s objectives. The higher level architecture and requirements have been defined, we now need your help to dive into the specifics. The Risk Analysis identifies the possible failures of the system, and it defines strategies to mitigate the causes and effects.
Tasks:
- Familiarize yourself with the mission. As a system engineer, it is your responsibility to be very well-informed and be able to answer most questions or find the answers.
- Prepare all the documentation for the PDR.
- Communicate with members from the other poles and universities to get information on the evolution of the subsystems' development.
- Make relevant design trade-offs.
Background and skills:
- Space Technologies minor
- System Engineering minor
- Or similar knowledge, System Engineering mentality
Structure
Thermal Analysis of the CHESS Satellite: Ensuring Optimal Thermal Performance in Space - Already taken
Semester project
Section : GM - EL (Energy Science and Technology)
Description:
The purpose of this semester project is to perform a comprehensive thermal analysis of the satellite designed for the CHESS mission. Given the challenging thermal conditions of space, it is crucial to ensure that the satellite's components remain within their specified temperature ranges for optimal performance and longevity.
Tasks:
System Understanding:
Gain a thorough understanding of the CHESS satellite's design, architecture, and thermal requirements. Study the different subsystems, components, and their corresponding thermal constraints. Identify critical components and their thermal sensitivities.
Thermal Modeling:
Develop a detailed thermal model of the satellite using ABAQUS or ANSYS. Consider factors such as radiative and conductive heat transfer mechanisms, as well as thermal properties of materials and environmental conditions. Incorporate accurate representations of the satellite's geometry, including its various structural and heat-generating elements.
Thermal Load Analysis:
Determine the thermal loads experienced by the different subsystems during various mission phases, including launch and in-orbit operations. Account for external heat sources, such as solar radiation, earth albedo, etc. as well as internal heat sources generated by electronics.
Thermal Control System Design:
Propose and optimize a thermal control system that can efficiently regulate the temperature of critical components within their specified operating limits. Explore passive and active thermal control techniques.
Documentation and Presentation:
Document the entire thermal analysis process, including the assumptions, methodologies, and results. Prepare a comprehensive report summarizing the findings, recommendations, and any trade-offs made during the project.
Background and skills:
- Basic understanding of orbital mechanics
- Experience in FEA softwares such as ANSYS or ABAQUS
- Master studies oriented towards thermal sciences
The purpose of this semester project is to perform a comprehensive thermal analysis of the satellite designed for the CHESS mission. Given the challenging thermal conditions of space, it is crucial to ensure that the satellite's components remain within their specified temperature ranges for optimal performance and longevity.
Tasks:
System Understanding:
Gain a thorough understanding of the CHESS satellite's design, architecture, and thermal requirements. Study the different subsystems, components, and their corresponding thermal constraints. Identify critical components and their thermal sensitivities.
Thermal Modeling:
Develop a detailed thermal model of the satellite using ABAQUS or ANSYS. Consider factors such as radiative and conductive heat transfer mechanisms, as well as thermal properties of materials and environmental conditions. Incorporate accurate representations of the satellite's geometry, including its various structural and heat-generating elements.
Thermal Load Analysis:
Determine the thermal loads experienced by the different subsystems during various mission phases, including launch and in-orbit operations. Account for external heat sources, such as solar radiation, earth albedo, etc. as well as internal heat sources generated by electronics.
Thermal Control System Design:
Propose and optimize a thermal control system that can efficiently regulate the temperature of critical components within their specified operating limits. Explore passive and active thermal control techniques.
Documentation and Presentation:
Document the entire thermal analysis process, including the assumptions, methodologies, and results. Prepare a comprehensive report summarizing the findings, recommendations, and any trade-offs made during the project.
Background and skills:
- Basic understanding of orbital mechanics
- Experience in FEA softwares such as ANSYS or ABAQUS
- Master studies oriented towards thermal sciences
Vibration Testing of a 3U CubeSat for the CHESS mission - Already taken
Semester project
Section : GM - PH - MT
Description:
The purpose of this semester project is to perform a comprehensive thermal analysis of the satellite designed for the CHESS mission. Given the challenging thermal conditions of space, it is crucial to ensure that the satellite's components remain within their specified temperature ranges for optimal performance and longevity.
Tasks:
Literature Review:
Conduct a thorough review of relevant literature, standards, and best practices regarding vibration testing for CubeSats. This will provide a solid foundation for designing the test plan.
Test Plan Design:
Develop a comprehensive test plan that outlines the testing parameters, equipment requirements, test duration, and specific vibration profiles to be applied. Considerations will be given to the frequency range, amplitude, and duration of the vibrations, which should simulate launch and deployment conditions as accurately as possible.
Vibration Testing:
Execute the vibration test according to the designed test plan. Monitor and record vibration levels, including acceleration, displacement, and frequency responses at various locations on the CubeSat.
Data Analysis:
Process the acquired data and analyze the vibration response of the CubeSat. Compare the results with predefined acceptance criteria and relevant industry standards. Identify any areas of concern, such as excessive vibrations or resonant frequencies, that may affect the CubeSat's structural integrity.
Recommendations and Reporting:
Based on the analysis, provide recommendations for design improvements or modifications to enhance the CubeSat's resilience to vibrations. Prepare a comprehensive report documenting the test procedures, results, and recommendations for future reference and dissemination to project stakeholders.
Background and skills:
- Vibrational mechanics course and good understanding of the concepts of frequency responses (modal frequencies,...)
The purpose of this semester project is to perform a comprehensive thermal analysis of the satellite designed for the CHESS mission. Given the challenging thermal conditions of space, it is crucial to ensure that the satellite's components remain within their specified temperature ranges for optimal performance and longevity.
Tasks:
Literature Review:
Conduct a thorough review of relevant literature, standards, and best practices regarding vibration testing for CubeSats. This will provide a solid foundation for designing the test plan.
Test Plan Design:
Develop a comprehensive test plan that outlines the testing parameters, equipment requirements, test duration, and specific vibration profiles to be applied. Considerations will be given to the frequency range, amplitude, and duration of the vibrations, which should simulate launch and deployment conditions as accurately as possible.
Vibration Testing:
Execute the vibration test according to the designed test plan. Monitor and record vibration levels, including acceleration, displacement, and frequency responses at various locations on the CubeSat.
Data Analysis:
Process the acquired data and analyze the vibration response of the CubeSat. Compare the results with predefined acceptance criteria and relevant industry standards. Identify any areas of concern, such as excessive vibrations or resonant frequencies, that may affect the CubeSat's structural integrity.
Recommendations and Reporting:
Based on the analysis, provide recommendations for design improvements or modifications to enhance the CubeSat's resilience to vibrations. Prepare a comprehensive report documenting the test procedures, results, and recommendations for future reference and dissemination to project stakeholders.
Background and skills:
- Vibrational mechanics course and good understanding of the concepts of frequency responses (modal frequencies,...)
EPS
Approval of Non-Space Grade Battery Pack for Space Applications
Semester project
Section : EL - MT - RO
Description:
This project aims to explore the feasibility of utilizing non-space grade batteries in space applications. The main objective is for the student to design and implement a comprehensive testing and validation plan for a battery pack made from non-space grade batteries. The plan will cover mechanical, environmental, and functional aspects to ensure the battery pack meets the necessary requirements for space missions. Additionally, the student will analyze the battery pack's mechanical characteristics, conduct environmental testing, and evaluate its electrical performance through a series of tests. Safety and reliability assessments will also be carried out.
Tasks:
The student's responsibilities include designing the battery pack, creating a testing and validation plan, performing tests, and documenting the results. Based on the findings, recommendations will be provided for the battery pack's suitability for space missions and suggestions for potential modifications or improvements.
Background and skills:
The successful completion of this project requires a solid background in electrical engineering, expertise in battery technologies, and proficiency in mechanical engineering principles to design the battery pack. Knowledge of environmental testing methods and safety analysis, along with skills in testing, data analysis, and report writing, are also necessary to develop the testing plan, conduct tests, interpret results, and provide recommendations for enhancing the battery pack's performance.
This project aims to explore the feasibility of utilizing non-space grade batteries in space applications. The main objective is for the student to design and implement a comprehensive testing and validation plan for a battery pack made from non-space grade batteries. The plan will cover mechanical, environmental, and functional aspects to ensure the battery pack meets the necessary requirements for space missions. Additionally, the student will analyze the battery pack's mechanical characteristics, conduct environmental testing, and evaluate its electrical performance through a series of tests. Safety and reliability assessments will also be carried out.
Tasks:
The student's responsibilities include designing the battery pack, creating a testing and validation plan, performing tests, and documenting the results. Based on the findings, recommendations will be provided for the battery pack's suitability for space missions and suggestions for potential modifications or improvements.
Background and skills:
The successful completion of this project requires a solid background in electrical engineering, expertise in battery technologies, and proficiency in mechanical engineering principles to design the battery pack. Knowledge of environmental testing methods and safety analysis, along with skills in testing, data analysis, and report writing, are also necessary to develop the testing plan, conduct tests, interpret results, and provide recommendations for enhancing the battery pack's performance.
Next Generation EPS Design and Integration - Already taken
Semester project
Section : EL - MT - RO
Description:
The project aims to design a more compact EPS system by integrating the Power Distribution Unit, Power Management Unit, and Battery Management Unit PCBs while adhering to constraints. Software development will also be crucial for control signals, sensor data retrieval, and algorithm implementation. The student's objectives include developing a compact EPS design, redefining the redundancy strategy for enhanced reliability, and implementing software components for the EPS system.
Tasks:
The student will deliver a comprehensive EPS design, analyze the redundancy strategy, and develop software components. This includes documentation of the design process, modifications, and an assessment of redundancy measures. The project aims to advance EPS technology and achieve a compact design with improved reliability and control capabilities.
Background and skills:
A strong foundation in electrical engineering or a related field is required. Knowledge of power systems, PCB design, and spacecraft systems is beneficial. Proficiency in software development, including programming languages like C/C++ or Python, is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills are necessary, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
The project aims to design a more compact EPS system by integrating the Power Distribution Unit, Power Management Unit, and Battery Management Unit PCBs while adhering to constraints. Software development will also be crucial for control signals, sensor data retrieval, and algorithm implementation. The student's objectives include developing a compact EPS design, redefining the redundancy strategy for enhanced reliability, and implementing software components for the EPS system.
Tasks:
The student will deliver a comprehensive EPS design, analyze the redundancy strategy, and develop software components. This includes documentation of the design process, modifications, and an assessment of redundancy measures. The project aims to advance EPS technology and achieve a compact design with improved reliability and control capabilities.
Background and skills:
A strong foundation in electrical engineering or a related field is required. Knowledge of power systems, PCB design, and spacecraft systems is beneficial. Proficiency in software development, including programming languages like C/C++ or Python, is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills are necessary, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Telecommunication
Testing & Integration of a Radio Amateur Satellite Transceivers - Already taken
Semester project
Section : MT - EL - SC - IN
Description:
The EPFL Spacecraft Team is developing an X-band transceiver to downlink the scientific data gathered by the CHESS CubeSats. While the space segment hardware nears completion, we are now focusing on the development of the corresponding ground transceiver. This project presents an exceptional opportunity to integrate and extensively test the ground hardware, with the ultimate objective of successfully receiving data from commercial satellites. Furthermore, the project offers the possibility of exploring various options for a UHF satellite transceiver, allowing for valuable technical trade-offs.
Tasks:
- Conduct comprehensive tests on the in-house developed transceivers and ground station antennas to ensure optimal performance.
- Validate the proposed system architecture, identifying any potential areas for improvement and pinpointing bottlenecks.
- Exploration of technical trade-offs for a UHF CubeSat transceiver.
Background and skills:
- This project lies at the intersection of hardware and software, familiarity with both aspects is preferable.
- Interest in radio amateur and/or satellite applications.
The EPFL Spacecraft Team is developing an X-band transceiver to downlink the scientific data gathered by the CHESS CubeSats. While the space segment hardware nears completion, we are now focusing on the development of the corresponding ground transceiver. This project presents an exceptional opportunity to integrate and extensively test the ground hardware, with the ultimate objective of successfully receiving data from commercial satellites. Furthermore, the project offers the possibility of exploring various options for a UHF satellite transceiver, allowing for valuable technical trade-offs.
Tasks:
- Conduct comprehensive tests on the in-house developed transceivers and ground station antennas to ensure optimal performance.
- Validate the proposed system architecture, identifying any potential areas for improvement and pinpointing bottlenecks.
- Exploration of technical trade-offs for a UHF CubeSat transceiver.
Background and skills:
- This project lies at the intersection of hardware and software, familiarity with both aspects is preferable.
- Interest in radio amateur and/or satellite applications.
Ground segment
Setup of a Satellite Ground Station Software/Hardware Architecture
Semester project
Section : MT - EL - SC - IN
Description:
The EPFL Spacecraft Team is seeking to enhance their antenna infrastructure located on the roof of the ELB building at the EPFL campus. Currently, the antennas operate across multiple frequency bands and are not integrated into a comprehensive system. Additionally, a hardware setup for computers/servers is present in a nearby lab. The project aims to integrate the antenna transmitters, receivers, and trackers with the server setup, enabling autonomous command and tracking of satellites and other targets. The overall goal is to establish a semi-automated and efficient system for antenna control and operation.
Tasks:
- Design a comprehensive hardware/software system architecture that seamlessly integrates the antenna infrastructure with the server setup.
- Trade-off between different options and acquisition of necessary hardware.
- Identification of potential areas for improvement and pinpointing bottlenecks
Background and skills:
- This project lies at the intersection of hardware and software, familiarity with both aspects is preferable.
- Interest in radio amateur and/or satellite applications.
The EPFL Spacecraft Team is seeking to enhance their antenna infrastructure located on the roof of the ELB building at the EPFL campus. Currently, the antennas operate across multiple frequency bands and are not integrated into a comprehensive system. Additionally, a hardware setup for computers/servers is present in a nearby lab. The project aims to integrate the antenna transmitters, receivers, and trackers with the server setup, enabling autonomous command and tracking of satellites and other targets. The overall goal is to establish a semi-automated and efficient system for antenna control and operation.
Tasks:
- Design a comprehensive hardware/software system architecture that seamlessly integrates the antenna infrastructure with the server setup.
- Trade-off between different options and acquisition of necessary hardware.
- Identification of potential areas for improvement and pinpointing bottlenecks
Background and skills:
- This project lies at the intersection of hardware and software, familiarity with both aspects is preferable.
- Interest in radio amateur and/or satellite applications.
Simulation, conceptualization and design of controller algorithm for the operation of an X-Y Antenna Pointing Mechanism - Already taken
Semester project
Section : MT - GM - INF
Description:
For the X-Band ground station, an X-Y antenna pointing mechanism will be used to track the satellite. As the conceptual design part of the mechanism is already made, we need to prepare for the control of such system. This project shall go through the steps of modeling the antenna pointing mechanism in Simulink and designing a robust tracking algorithm for optimal operation of the system using MPC or predictive controller.
Tasks:
- Simulation of the mechanical system in Simulink.
- Analysis and selection of the most efficient control method.
- Design of the tracking algorithm.
Background and skills:
- Proficiency in Simulink.
- Knowledge in control and common method is a plus.
For the X-Band ground station, an X-Y antenna pointing mechanism will be used to track the satellite. As the conceptual design part of the mechanism is already made, we need to prepare for the control of such system. This project shall go through the steps of modeling the antenna pointing mechanism in Simulink and designing a robust tracking algorithm for optimal operation of the system using MPC or predictive controller.
Tasks:
- Simulation of the mechanical system in Simulink.
- Analysis and selection of the most efficient control method.
- Design of the tracking algorithm.
Background and skills:
- Proficiency in Simulink.
- Knowledge in control and common method is a plus.
Conception and manufacturing of an autonomous calibration system for an X-Y antenna pointing mechanism
Semester project
Section : MT - GM - EL
Description:
For the X-Band ground station, an X-Y antenna pointing mechanism will be used to track the satellite. From previous projects, the mechanism has already been designed. We are now looking at the conception and manufacturing of a system that would allow the system to perform an autonomous calibration for precise positioning during a tracking sequence. To perform this feat, you will have to conceive the hardware and software in the first part of the project to finally begin the manufacturing process. Additionally, it would be interesting to imagine a mechanical stopper for the antenna pointing mechanism.
Tasks:
- Conceive the mechanical part of the calibration system and the stoppers.
- Conceive the software part and generate a program to make the calibration autonomously.
- Integrate the previously designed system on the existing hardware.
Background and skills:
- Knowledge in mechanical design.
- Interest in the control of systems.
For the X-Band ground station, an X-Y antenna pointing mechanism will be used to track the satellite. From previous projects, the mechanism has already been designed. We are now looking at the conception and manufacturing of a system that would allow the system to perform an autonomous calibration for precise positioning during a tracking sequence. To perform this feat, you will have to conceive the hardware and software in the first part of the project to finally begin the manufacturing process. Additionally, it would be interesting to imagine a mechanical stopper for the antenna pointing mechanism.
Tasks:
- Conceive the mechanical part of the calibration system and the stoppers.
- Conceive the software part and generate a program to make the calibration autonomously.
- Integrate the previously designed system on the existing hardware.
Background and skills:
- Knowledge in mechanical design.
- Interest in the control of systems.
University of Bern - CubeSatTOFS
Structural design of the mass spectrometer on board the CHESS mission - Already taken
Structural design
Semester project
Section : GM
Description:
The CubeSatTOF mass spectrometer was selected to analyze the chemical composition of Earth’s upper atmosphere on board the student-driven Constellation of High-performance Exosphere Science Satellites (CHESS, https://doi.org/10.1109/AERO53065.2022.9843791) mission. The CHESS mission is part of EPFL’s initiative to engage students in applied space projects. We designed it to solve a 40-year-old puzzle in atmospheric science using a mass spectrometer and a GNSS instrument. The mass spectrometer requires novel concepts for the data processing unit to allow for miniaturization, enabling this CubeSat-type mission.
The structural design of the mass spectrometer is driven by the mechanical design of the ion-optical system. It has to survive launch to space, currently planned on a Falcon 9 in early 2026. The structure of the CubeSatTOF instrument is currently in an evolved prototype stage. The aim of this project is to provide a flight design of the structure of the ion-optical system and related parts of the instrument to withstand vibration and shock conditions experienced during launch to space. This achievement represents a technical readiness level 6 design and is a major milestone within this multi-organization, ESA-supported project.
Tasks:
- Model the design of the structure of the ion-optical system- Perform FE analysis (modal, quasi static, dynamic).
- Improve the existing design according to the simulations- Compile and adapt CubeSat standards and requirements related to modelling.
- Develop and archive the according documentation
Background and skills:
- Experience in any CAD tool is necessary, ideally with CATIA.
- The candidate has experience in FE simulation, preferably with NASTRAN, or the willingness to learn it.
There is some flexibility to tailor the project goals to the expectations of the candidate. The work includes about 70% modelling and software and about 30% design.
The work will be carried out at the University of Bern, leading the development of CubeSatTOF, with close interaction with the EPFL given the highly integrated mission design. You will be part of a dynamic, cross-functional team whose mindset enables the realization of state-of-the-art space instrumentation on major ESA and NASA missions. We provide insights into the complex world of developing space instrumentation and introduce you to strategies to master such challenges.
The CubeSatTOF mass spectrometer was selected to analyze the chemical composition of Earth’s upper atmosphere on board the student-driven Constellation of High-performance Exosphere Science Satellites (CHESS, https://doi.org/10.1109/AERO53065.2022.9843791) mission. The CHESS mission is part of EPFL’s initiative to engage students in applied space projects. We designed it to solve a 40-year-old puzzle in atmospheric science using a mass spectrometer and a GNSS instrument. The mass spectrometer requires novel concepts for the data processing unit to allow for miniaturization, enabling this CubeSat-type mission.
The structural design of the mass spectrometer is driven by the mechanical design of the ion-optical system. It has to survive launch to space, currently planned on a Falcon 9 in early 2026. The structure of the CubeSatTOF instrument is currently in an evolved prototype stage. The aim of this project is to provide a flight design of the structure of the ion-optical system and related parts of the instrument to withstand vibration and shock conditions experienced during launch to space. This achievement represents a technical readiness level 6 design and is a major milestone within this multi-organization, ESA-supported project.
Tasks:
- Model the design of the structure of the ion-optical system- Perform FE analysis (modal, quasi static, dynamic).
- Improve the existing design according to the simulations- Compile and adapt CubeSat standards and requirements related to modelling.
- Develop and archive the according documentation
Background and skills:
- Experience in any CAD tool is necessary, ideally with CATIA.
- The candidate has experience in FE simulation, preferably with NASTRAN, or the willingness to learn it.
There is some flexibility to tailor the project goals to the expectations of the candidate. The work includes about 70% modelling and software and about 30% design.
The work will be carried out at the University of Bern, leading the development of CubeSatTOF, with close interaction with the EPFL given the highly integrated mission design. You will be part of a dynamic, cross-functional team whose mindset enables the realization of state-of-the-art space instrumentation on major ESA and NASA missions. We provide insights into the complex world of developing space instrumentation and introduce you to strategies to master such challenges.
AI/ML-enabled reduction of the data rate of the mass spectrometer on board the CHESS mission
Data Science
Semester project
Section : Data Science - IC - SC
Description:
The CubeSatTOF mass spectrometer was selected to analyze the chemical composition of Earth’s upper atmosphere on board the student-driven Constellation of High-performance Exosphere Science Satellites (CHESS, https://doi.org/10.1109/AERO53065.2022.9843791) mission. The CHESS mission is part of EPFL’s initiative to engage students in applied space projects. We designed it to solve a 40-year-old puzzle in atmospheric science using a mass spectrometer and a GNSS instrument. Besides its scientific application, the mass spectrometer also serves as a tech demo.
The data product produced by mass spectrometers is conservable. Current instrumentation records the data and compress them with a lossy wavelet-based compression algorithms before transmission to ground, where they are studied for years during post-processing. Despite this approach is sufficient for the CHESS mission, the data rates on descent probes, on, for example, Venus, Io, or Europa, prevent using such approaches. Consequently, future mass spectrometers require an onboard processing analyzing the data both autonomously and in real-time. Enabled by AI/ML, we aim at reducing the data rates by about a factor of 100. The selected candidate will investigate detailed methods to achieve this goal.
Tasks:
- Study applicable AI/ML methods for implementation into the data processing unit
- Select a method to be implemented
- Outline a strategy for an implementation
- Specify requirements to achieve these goals
- Develop and archive the according documentation
Background and skills:
- Demonstrated experience in data science is necessary
- The candidate is fluent in python and has experience in PyTorch (or similar), or the willingness to learn it.
- Experience with data acquisition on FPGAs is considered a bonus, but not necessary.
There is some flexibility to tailor the project goals to the expectations of the candidate. The work includes about 60% modelling and software and about 40% design.
The work will be carried out at the University of Bern, leading the development of CubeSatTOF, with close interaction with the EPFL given the highly integrated mission design. You will be part of a dynamic, cross-functional team whose mindset enables the realization of state-of-the-art space instrumentation on major ESA and NASA missions. We provide insights into the complex world of developing space instrumentation and introduce you to strategies to master such challenges.
The CubeSatTOF mass spectrometer was selected to analyze the chemical composition of Earth’s upper atmosphere on board the student-driven Constellation of High-performance Exosphere Science Satellites (CHESS, https://doi.org/10.1109/AERO53065.2022.9843791) mission. The CHESS mission is part of EPFL’s initiative to engage students in applied space projects. We designed it to solve a 40-year-old puzzle in atmospheric science using a mass spectrometer and a GNSS instrument. Besides its scientific application, the mass spectrometer also serves as a tech demo.
The data product produced by mass spectrometers is conservable. Current instrumentation records the data and compress them with a lossy wavelet-based compression algorithms before transmission to ground, where they are studied for years during post-processing. Despite this approach is sufficient for the CHESS mission, the data rates on descent probes, on, for example, Venus, Io, or Europa, prevent using such approaches. Consequently, future mass spectrometers require an onboard processing analyzing the data both autonomously and in real-time. Enabled by AI/ML, we aim at reducing the data rates by about a factor of 100. The selected candidate will investigate detailed methods to achieve this goal.
Tasks:
- Study applicable AI/ML methods for implementation into the data processing unit
- Select a method to be implemented
- Outline a strategy for an implementation
- Specify requirements to achieve these goals
- Develop and archive the according documentation
Background and skills:
- Demonstrated experience in data science is necessary
- The candidate is fluent in python and has experience in PyTorch (or similar), or the willingness to learn it.
- Experience with data acquisition on FPGAs is considered a bonus, but not necessary.
There is some flexibility to tailor the project goals to the expectations of the candidate. The work includes about 60% modelling and software and about 40% design.
The work will be carried out at the University of Bern, leading the development of CubeSatTOF, with close interaction with the EPFL given the highly integrated mission design. You will be part of a dynamic, cross-functional team whose mindset enables the realization of state-of-the-art space instrumentation on major ESA and NASA missions. We provide insights into the complex world of developing space instrumentation and introduce you to strategies to master such challenges.
Development of an FPGA-based data processing unit for the mass spectrometer on board the CHESS mission - Already taken
Digital design
Semester project
Section : MT - EL - IC - SC
Description:
The CubeSatTOF mass spectrometer was selected to analyze the chemical composition of Earth’s upper atmosphere on board the student-driven Constellation of High-performance Exosphere Science Satellites (CHESS, https://doi.org/10.1109/AERO53065.2022.9843791) mission. The CHESS mission is part of EPFL’s initiative to engage students in applied space projects. We designed it to solve a 40-year-old puzzle in atmospheric science using a mass spectrometer and a GNSS instrument. The mass spectrometer requires novel concepts for the data processing unit to allow for miniaturization, enabling this CubeSat-type mission.
The data processing unit of the CubeSatTOF instrument is currently in an early prototype stage. The aim of this project is to establish a fully functional data processing unit from scratch, making use of the existing boards within this multi-organization, ESA-supported project. The work will include designing concepts for operations and their implementation into the application software, the VHDL code, and the Electrical Ground Support Model (EGSE).
The design of the data processing unit is driven by the high-speed data acquisition electronics containing a high-speed ADC (1.6 GHz) interfacing the FPGA (JESD204c). To overcome the bandwidth limitations regarding data output, real-time signal processing is embedded into the FPGA, preferably including compression. Additionally, the design implements control of an ultra-fast high-voltage pulsar (200 V in 1 – 2ns). Additional work could include studying the application of AI/ML in the data acquisition process, if desired by the candidate.
Tasks:
- Implement the concepts for the data processing unit in VHDL code and application software (python and/or C++).
- Conceptualize, develop, adapt, evaluate, and improve concepts for controlling of the periphery of the instrument and its electrical ground support equipment.
- Develop and archive the according documentation.
- Partner with software and electrical engineers, project management, and systems engineering on instrument / mission level to define the requirements of them.
Background and skills:
- Experience in the design of VHDL code is necessary, ideally with Xilinx (Vivado tools).
- The candidate has good programming skills in either python, C++ or both.
- Experience with RESTful APIs is considered as a bonus.
There is some flexibility to tailor the project goals to the expectations of the candidate. The work includes about 70% development of application of firmware and software and about 30% conceptualizing and end-to-end testing.
The work will be carried out at the University of Bern, leading the development of CubeSatTOF, with close interaction with the EPFL given the highly integrated mission design. You will be part of a dynamic, cross-functional team whose mindset enables the realization of state-of-the-art space instrumentation on major ESA and NASA missions. We provide insights into the complex world of developing space instrumentation and introduce you to strategies to master such challenges.
The CubeSatTOF mass spectrometer was selected to analyze the chemical composition of Earth’s upper atmosphere on board the student-driven Constellation of High-performance Exosphere Science Satellites (CHESS, https://doi.org/10.1109/AERO53065.2022.9843791) mission. The CHESS mission is part of EPFL’s initiative to engage students in applied space projects. We designed it to solve a 40-year-old puzzle in atmospheric science using a mass spectrometer and a GNSS instrument. The mass spectrometer requires novel concepts for the data processing unit to allow for miniaturization, enabling this CubeSat-type mission.
The data processing unit of the CubeSatTOF instrument is currently in an early prototype stage. The aim of this project is to establish a fully functional data processing unit from scratch, making use of the existing boards within this multi-organization, ESA-supported project. The work will include designing concepts for operations and their implementation into the application software, the VHDL code, and the Electrical Ground Support Model (EGSE).
The design of the data processing unit is driven by the high-speed data acquisition electronics containing a high-speed ADC (1.6 GHz) interfacing the FPGA (JESD204c). To overcome the bandwidth limitations regarding data output, real-time signal processing is embedded into the FPGA, preferably including compression. Additionally, the design implements control of an ultra-fast high-voltage pulsar (200 V in 1 – 2ns). Additional work could include studying the application of AI/ML in the data acquisition process, if desired by the candidate.
Tasks:
- Implement the concepts for the data processing unit in VHDL code and application software (python and/or C++).
- Conceptualize, develop, adapt, evaluate, and improve concepts for controlling of the periphery of the instrument and its electrical ground support equipment.
- Develop and archive the according documentation.
- Partner with software and electrical engineers, project management, and systems engineering on instrument / mission level to define the requirements of them.
Background and skills:
- Experience in the design of VHDL code is necessary, ideally with Xilinx (Vivado tools).
- The candidate has good programming skills in either python, C++ or both.
- Experience with RESTful APIs is considered as a bonus.
There is some flexibility to tailor the project goals to the expectations of the candidate. The work includes about 70% development of application of firmware and software and about 30% conceptualizing and end-to-end testing.
The work will be carried out at the University of Bern, leading the development of CubeSatTOF, with close interaction with the EPFL given the highly integrated mission design. You will be part of a dynamic, cross-functional team whose mindset enables the realization of state-of-the-art space instrumentation on major ESA and NASA missions. We provide insights into the complex world of developing space instrumentation and introduce you to strategies to master such challenges.
