Microsatellites and Space Microsystems Laboratory

Research activities of the Microsatellites and Space Microsystems Laboratory include: - MicroPropulsion Systems Started with the experience gathered through the development of the cold-gas μ-propulsion system of ALMASat-1 microsatellite, the research activity is now focused towards the development of warm gas high test peroxide monopropellant thrusters. - Autonomous GNSS Navigation Systems The focus is on the study and development of accurate and cost effective solutions for autonomous real-time orbit determination on board of micro- and nano-satellite platforms. - Spacecraft Operations Oriented towards the application of artificial intelligence to enhance operations, research topics are: space traffic management, satellite monitoring and control, and autonomous operations. Thanks to ESEO project, our laboratory has its own ground segment facility where to gain hands on experience and experiment new techniques in spacecraft operations. - Attitude Determination and Control Systems Pointing accuracy and stability is critical in S/C operation. Algorithms for attitude control and determination of nanosatellites rely on limited hardware and have to meet specific requirements. As part of our laboratory work, advanced control topics are employed to guarantee a higher level of performance in nanosatellites operation.