Time Synchronization for Anchorless Satellite Networks

In this thesis, we propose a new class of pairwise frequency, multi-domain time synchronization and ranging algorithms for anchorless mobile networks of asynchronous nodes. We apply these techniques and study network and mission level aspects of time synchronization to Orbiting Low Frequency Array for Radio astronomy (OLFAR), a proposed...

Ready for detection: Stair-detecting in depth images using spatial features and Adaboosting

Space exploration could be significantly aided by combining the disciplines of machine learning and computer vision, but these disciplines need to be developed further for specific space-related applications to have merit. One of the applications for space exploration is the detection of certain structures designating areas of interest. This...

Improving Satellite Positioning By Measuring Eclipse Times

More than forty years after its introduction, Simplified General Perturbation Theory No. 4 (SGP4) is still currently in use as the de facto standard in orbit propagation and in generating Two-Line Elements (TLEs). Unfortunately, the positioning error that results from the generated TLEs have remained relatively unchanged and continue to increase...

A Miniaturised Raman Spectrometer for Life Detection in Ice

The objective of this MSc thesis was to design a miniaturised Raman spectrometer that can be used in terrestrial deep ice applications of the IceMole probe. This probe is a manoeuvrable subsurface system for clean in situ analysis and sampling, developed at FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences since 2008, that is now part of a bigger DLR...

Development of a Miniaturized Demonstrator for Foam Rheology Microgravity Experiments

The project under analysis is about the development and qualification of a demonstrator for a miniaturized foam rheology experiment performed in microgravity environment. The thesis is part of a larger feasibility study to evaluate the possibility of implementing such experiment on the International Space Station as an internal payload of the...

Plasma Actuators in Space-Based Systems

Plasma actuators are fully electronic devices without any moving mechanical parts. Hence they have increased reliability and lower complexity when compared to conventional actuators used for same purposes. Mobile components also contribute to increased vibrations, noise, loss of energy and they require lubrication. Non-thermal plasma actuators...

Remote Sensing for Spatial Electrostatic Characterization using the Multi-Sphere Method

Focusing on the rapidly increasing debris population around Earth as well as the scientific and corporate interest in Asteroids, multiple missions for interaction with non-cooperative bodies have been proposed over the last years. Applications such as the Electrostatic Tractor (ET) aiming to reduce the debris populations and missions introducing...

Space Missions with SOKS: The First Complete Overview of Space Missions with Sub One Kilogram Spacecraft Launched in the Past (1957-2016)

The success of CubeSat, after 2005, resulted in bright future expectations of Spacecraft with a mass below one kilogram. Although these spacecraft are usually known as Pico and FemtoSat, their ambiguous nature and inconsistent use in literature resulted in the use of an alternative, namely Sub One Kilogram Spacecraft, or simply said SOKS....

Collision analysis and mitigation for distributed space systems

Collision analysis and mitigation performed for the QB50 mission. The aim of this thesis report is to identify which mitigation strategies are most suitable for a network of uncontrollable satellites. Furthermore, the aim is to set-out a method to determine the collision probability for a network of uncontrollable satellites, and identify the...

Heliport Gorinchem - Designing an Aerial Logistic Network

The Dutch city of Gorinchem has great economic growth opportunities for the future, but is limited by its transport system. It is strategically located at a crossroad of two motorways and two rivers, the Boven-Merwede and the Linge. Gorinchem is home to a number of multinationals, among others Damen Shipyards and Van Oord. This sets the right...