Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator: GlobalStar Testing and ResultsThe communications subsystem of a spacecraft is typically a SWaP (size, weight, and power) intensive subsystem in a SWaP constrained environment such as a CubeSat. Use of a satellite-based communication system, such as GlobalStars duplex GSP-1720 radio is a low SWaP potentially game-changing low-cost communication subsystem solution that was evaluated for feasibility for the NASA Pathfinder Technology Demonstrator (PTD) project. The PTD project is a series of 6U CubeSat missions to flight demonstrate and characterize novel small satellite payloads in low Earth orbit. GlobalStar is a low Earth orbit satellite constellation for satellite phone and low-speed data communications, and the GSP-1720 is their single board duplex radio most commonly used in satellite phones and shipment tracking devices. The PTD project tested the GSP-1720 to characterize its viability for flight using NASA GEVS (General Environmental Verification Standard) vibration and thermal vacuum levels, as well as testing the uplink-downlink connectivity, data throughput, and file transfer capabilities. This presentation will present the results of the environmental and capability testing of the GSP-1720 performed at NASA Ames Research Center, as well as the viability for CubeSat use in LEO.
Document ID
20170011650
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Presentation
Authors
Kuroda, Vanessa (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Limes, Gregory L. (SGT, Inc. Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Han, Shi Lei (SGT, Inc. Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Hanson, John Eric (Millennium Engineering and Integration Co. Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Christa, Scott E. (SGT, Inc. Moffett Field, CA, United States)