MakerSat

Creator: Spacefelix Status: In Planning Born On: 14:03, 28 July 2010 (CDT) Last Updated: 14:22, 28 July 2010 (CDT)

Overview

This page is for the MakerSat project. Makers Local 256's spaceflight effort to put a satellite in space.

Status

• Have gathered information and resources on satellite and launch options and costs (monetary and technical).

Concepts

• Goal - To put a satellite in orbit for a period of time. As of now, the purpose of the satellite is open.
• Satellite Options:
  • TubeSat - Will be in a decaying LEO (Low Earth Orbit). It will only stay up for a couple of months. But it will only cost $8,000 to buy kit and launch. The best option for us to start out and learn about satellites and spaceflight.
  • CubeSat - Will be in LEO for an indefinite period of time. Cost to build and launch can be up to $50,000.
• Suggested Missions:
  • Real-Time Imaging From Space - Webcast a live real-time video or pictures from the satellite.
  • Biological Payload - Something akin to an EcoSphere or other biological specimens. Would need a way to remotely observe them. Potential science project collaboration.
  • Broadcast - Broadcast custom pre-recorded signals over Ham Radio frequencies so anyone can tune in to our flight.

People

• BendersGame
• Spacefelix

Resources

TubeSat

• Interorbital Systems
• Make Magazine Article

CubeSat

• CubeSat
• CubeSat Design Specifications
• CubeSat Kits
• Pumpkin Inc. - Price listing of CubeSat parts.
• AMSAT Cubesat Repeater for Ham Radio
• AMSAT Corporation - Look like good partners to be with for this project.
• NASA Cubesat Initiative
• 'Bitsy: A Minimum Cost Spacecraft for Nanosatellite Missions
• StudSat - Student Satellite based in India