FAQs

A CubeSat is a class of nanosatellite that is 10cm x 10cm x 10cm. These "units" can be stacked together to make larger CubeSats that are 2U, 3U, etc. BrophySat-1 will be a 2U CubeSat, meaning it has dimensions of 10cm x 10cm x 20cm. They have a maximum mass of 1.33kg per unit and typically make use of commercial-off-the-shelf components rather than bespoke, expensive electronics. Due to their small size and falling launch costs, CubeSats have surged in popularity as more institutions are able to afford owning and operating a satellite. 

For many unmanned and manned missions in space, solar panels are usually the only source of power for a spacecraft. By evaluating different types and variations of solar panels, we can help determine the most efficient solar panels for use in space, letting missions use more effective solar panels. With more effective solar panels, less panels are needed, decreasing the payload mass and overall mission cost.