DynOSSAT-EDU

is a True Low Cost CircuitPython & Arduino Compatible, open source nanosatellite development kit designed for makers, students and amateurs. Our aim is to provide the DIY and educational communities with a complete and realistic PocketQube platform (just 5x5 cm!) that includes all the necessary modules for the operation of a real nanosatellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) that would serve as a device for teaching, training or just driving curiosity about the philosophy and technology related to NewSpace.

The system is composed of three different, standalone boards using Libre Space Foundation’s PQ60 form factor, but replacing the PQ60 connector for an easier to use 1.27 mm 40-pin header (that we called the PQBH40).

Each board fulfills the purpose of a real nanosatellite subsystem:

• OBC (On Board Computer), integrates an IMU (Accelerometer + Magnetometer + Gyroscope), a temperature sensor and a multi gas sensor. At its heart is a powerful ATSAMD51 MCU, well-known for its extensive use in the maker community.

• EPS (Electric Power System). Integrates the battery management and power distribution subsystems, including charging through solar panels using flight-proven MPPT electronics. It also carries an ATSAMD21 for overall management.

• SatComm (Communications). This board integrates a long range LoRa module to simulate LEO-Earth communications and a PAN 2.4 GHz module (based on the nRF52832 SoC) to simulate LEO-LEO communications and to allow communication with mobile apps for teaching and simulation projects using Smartphones.

Key Points

While developing DynOSSAT-EDU, we worked with the following topics in mind:

Easy to develop for. Both the OBC and the EPS come preprogrammed with a customized version of the UF2 bootloader. That means they appear as USB drives when connected to a computer, so you can just drag and drop the compiled binaries without the hassle of having a programmer such as a J-Link. It is out of the box compatible with the Arduino Framework, Adafruit’s CircuitPython and native Atmel programming, which makes it the most suitable platform for its use in the maker and educational communities. A Zephyr OS port is also in the works and will be available soon after launch.

Low cost. There are other nanosatellite development platforms available, but they are really expensive and/or lacking in features. We have chosen electronic components common and low cost enough so anyone with the suitable equipment (soldering iron and hot air gun) may assemble the platform themselves without much hassle.

Open source. The boards have been developed using KiCAD, probably the best FOSS electronics CAD software. We’re in the process of certifying DynOSSAT-EDU through the Open Source Hardware Association. Both the UF2 bootloader (MIT), CircuitPython ports (MIT) and the hardware (CERN) are open source and available here on GitHub. This means anyone may contribute and create their own version of DynOSSAT-EDU to be precisely adapted to their needs!

Expandability. A template for the PCB’s form factor is provided, so you can design your own DynOSSAT-EDU module that expands or improves its features. For example, we’re now designing a new communications board (which uses discrete RF components instead of modules) and a new OBC with a high-performance dual core SoC for the more extreme applications (AI in space…?)