A miniature Arduino-based satellite that simulates real satellite operations: data collection, communication, and system control — a compact, intelligent platform for monitoring orientation and environmental parameters in real time while efficiently managing onboard resources.
The project focuses on developing a miniature Arduino-based satellite that simulates real satellite operations such as data collection, communication, and system control. The idea was to design a compact and intelligent platform capable of monitoring orientation and environmental parameters in real time while efficiently managing onboard resources.
Goals included creating a functional small-scale satellite prototype capable of simulating orbital sensor behavior; implementing real-time communication between the satellite and a ground station using the MQTT protocol; developing a lightweight, modular software system for efficient mode switching, task handling, and data transmission; and integrating sensors for orientation tracking and environmental measurement, demonstrating a simplified model of satellite telemetry.
Defined core subsystems for sensing, communication, and power management. Designed the overall satellite structure and control logic for multi-mode operation (active, idle, transmit).
Used Arduino Nano as the main controller. Integrated gyroscopic sensors (MPU6050) for attitude monitoring and environmental sensors for data collection. Implemented buzzer alerts and mode indicators for system feedback.
Programmed the control system in C++ using PlatformIO for better project organization and version control. Implemented MQTT communication for low-latency data exchange with the ground station. Added efficient task scheduling and mode switching to ensure smooth operation under limited processing capacity. Conducted bench tests to verify data transmission reliability and sensor accuracy; simulated satellite operation modes, ensuring stable communication and smooth transitions between modes; validated performance through continuous operation tests to confirm system stability and responsiveness.
Efficient task scheduling and mode switching under limited processing capacity.
Low-latency, reliable data exchange between satellite and ground station via MQTT.
Stable communication and smooth transitions between active, idle, and transmit modes.
Functional small-scale satellite prototype simulating orbital sensor behavior achieved.
Real-time communication between satellite and ground station using MQTT implemented.
Bench tests verified data transmission reliability and sensor accuracy; continuous operation confirmed system stability and responsiveness.
The system was developed through system design and architecture, hardware integration, software development, and testing and validation. Development focus: real-time communication, task management, lightweight embedded system design.
A compact and intelligent platform capable of monitoring orientation and environmental parameters in real time while efficiently managing onboard resources.
Future work could include additional telemetry channels, power profiling, or extended mode logic.