MPC-based autonomous assignment algorithm for a swarm of satellites

This thesis was aimed for the Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at The Delft University of Technology. The goal of this research was to formulate an assignment algorithm for autonomous guidance, control, and navigation system for spacecraft formation flying using a Model Predictive Control approach for estimation of fuel...

Free-Space Multi-beam Optical Communication Terminal Design for Spacecraft

Contemporary optical communication terminals are capable of higher data rates, over longer distances for less power compared to traditional radio communication terminals. As of writing, these terminals are almost exclusively single beam compatible. This thesis describes dedicated multi-beam terminal with COTS components. The design study used a...

Combined Airborne Wind and Photovoltaic Energy System for Martian Habitats

Generating renewable energy on Mars is technologically challenging. Firstly, because, compared to Earth, key energy resources such as solar and wind are weak as a result of very low atmospheric pressure and low solar irradiation. Secondly, because of the harsh environmental conditions, the required high degree of automation, and the exceptional...

Assessment of Reinforcement Learning for CubeSat concept generation

The growing need for CubeSats could present strong demands for the use of automated systems during the early stage of the design cycle. Automated design tools that are able to incorporate the entire design space offered by the commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components for CubeSats may potentially improve the design of a CubeSat, compared to...

Arcadian Renewable Energy System: Renewable Energy for Mars Habitat

The human eye has turned itself back to the sky with the commercialisation of the space industry, and a new goal has been set. Setting foot on the Red Planet is the next stage of the human exploration of the universe. The travel to Mars is very lengthy and costly, nonetheless the planet still shows great potential for sustaining human life. To...

Mass optimisation of cryogenic fluid systems for long-duration space missions

After the space race to the Moon, Mars has been chosen the new destination to be explored by mankind. Cryogenic propellant is necessary to make space beyond the Moon accessible. Boil-off of cryogenic liquids raises the initial mass of spacecraft by increasing the amount of propellant required to carry-on. Therefore, mitigation of boil-off is key...

Phase Diversity for the Deployable Space Telescope

The Deployable SpaceTelescope Project was started at Delft University of Technology in 2014. The projectaims to develop an ultra-high resolution Earth Observation telescope with aresolution of 0.25m, but with a much lower mass and volume than its competitorscurrently in operation. In order to meet the stringent mass...