Implementation of a Data Handling System for a Scientific Magnetometer on a CubeSat
Since their invention in 1999, CubeSats have become a widespread standard for small picosatellite missions. CubeSats allow for quick development of satellite payloads and launch in space without the high costs of a normal satellite. Emphasis during the CubeSat design process is placed on use of commercialoff- the-shelf (COTS) components and reuse of previously-designed units.This report describes the interfacing of a scientific magnetometer, the Small Magnetometer in Low-Mass Experiment (SMILE) to such a CubeSat mission, the Space Weather using Ion spectrometers and Magnetometers (SWIM). Design of a complete platform for use in multiple such missions is presented here.Modularity is one of the key aspects followed in the course of the work. A new board containing the analog pick-up and compensation circuitry for SMILE has been designed to fit inside a CubeSat frame. Additionally, the board contains circuitry for temperature measurements and gravity-gradient boom deployment. Modularity on the board is assured via short-circuit resistors, which can be soldered in case features are needed.A full communication protocol has been developed and is presented as part of this work. Hardware implemented in an FPGA is used for filtering of compensation signals and storage to a Flash memory chip on the SMILE board. A modular, reusable and adaptable software stack for the flight microcontroller unit (FMCU) has been implemented for communicating to the SMILE instrument. The stack has been designed to be usable with different processors and communication interfaces. It can be run under an infinite-loop type application using interrupts, or as part of a real-time operating system task.