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Aerospace
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Space Telescopes & Payloads
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Space Telescopes & Payloads

A special issue of Aerospace (ISSN 2226-4310). This special issue belongs to the section "Astronautics & Space Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2024 | Viewed by 42573

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ariadna Calcines Rosario

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Physics, Centre for Advanced Instrumentation (CfAI), Durham University, Durham DH1 3DE, UK
Interests: image slicers; integral field spectrographs; ground-based and space instrumentation (solar and night-time); ground-based and space telescopes; optical design; innovative technology
Dr. John Capone

E-Mail
Guest Editor
Optics Branch, NASA GSFC, Greenbelt, MD 20771, USA
Interests: visible and infrared instrumentation; automated workflows; integrated modelling; development and application of enabling technologies
Dr. Sophie Musset

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
European Space Agency, ESTEC, 2201 Noordwijk, The Netherlands
Interests: X-ray telescopes; gamma-ray telescopes; solar instrumentation; radio telescopes; interferometers
Prof. Paula Chadwick

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Physics, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
Interests: gamma ray astronomy and instrumentation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Building on the extraordinary success of the James Webb Space Telescope and the remarkable technological advancements that have made it possible to deploy a 6.5-meter telescope in space, this Special Issue aims to showcase the latest developments in Space Telescopes and Payloads. With the ongoing exploration of Mars by rovers and the first-ever flight of a helicopter off Earth, as well as the Solar Orbiter’s unprecedented imagery of the Sun and Parker Solar Probe touching the solar corona, this is an exciting time in the advancement of space-based instruments central to such groundbreaking missions.

Original research contributions are welcome in the following areas:

  • All spectral ranges are considered: gamma-rays, X-ray, extreme ultra-violet (EUV), ultra-violet (UV), visible, infrared, microwaves, radio waves.
  • In-orbit, under development, or proposals for missions such as:
    • Solar space telescopes;
    • Space telescopes for astronomy;
    • Space telescopes dedicated to Earth observation;
    • CubeSats;
    • Payloads: spectrometers, imagers, coronographs, magnetographs, polarimeters;
    • Rovers;
    • Plasma and particle sensors.
  • Challenges, current limitations, and ideas to overcome them;
  • Technological innovations that will benefit the new generation of space telescopes and their payloads such as (but not limited to):
    • Image slicer innovations: ideas, designs, techniques, materials and developments;
    • IFU solutions;
    • Deployable technology;
    • Remote controlled technology for space;
    • Freeform optical design;
    • Miniaturized optical solutions;
    • Advances in manufacturing;
    • Developments of new materials (including substrates and coatings), techniques and tools;
    • Diffraction gratings. 

Dr. Ariadna Calcines Rosario
Dr. John Capone
Dr. Sophie Musset
Prof. Paula Chadwick
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Aerospace is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • space telescopes
  • payloads
  • space missions
  • IFUs
  • mission proposals
  • CubeSats
  • advances in technology

Published Papers (13 papers)

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12 pages, 5657 KiB  
Article
Steering Mirror System with Closed-Loop Feedback for Free-Space Optical Communication Terminals
by Chris Graham, David Bramall, Othman Younus, Amna Riaz, Richard Binns, Eamon Scullion, Robert T. Wicks and Cyril Bourgenot
Aerospace 2024, 11(5), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11050330 - 23 Apr 2024
Viewed by 421
Abstract
Precision beam pointing plays a critical role in free-space optical communications terminals in uplink, downlink and inter-satellite link scenarios. Among the various methods of beam steering, the use of fast steering mirrors (FSM) is widely adopted, with many commercial solutions employing diverse technologies, [...] Read more.
Precision beam pointing plays a critical role in free-space optical communications terminals in uplink, downlink and inter-satellite link scenarios. Among the various methods of beam steering, the use of fast steering mirrors (FSM) is widely adopted, with many commercial solutions employing diverse technologies, particularly focusing on small, high-bandwidth mirrors. This paper introduces a method using lightweight, commercial off-the-shelf components to construct a custom closed-loop steering mirror platform, suitable for mirror apertures exceeding 100 mm. The approach involves integrating optical encoders into two off-the-shelf open-loop actuators. These encoders read the signal reflected on purposefully diamond-machined knurled screw knobs, providing maximum contrast between light and dark lines. The resulting steering mirror has the potential to complement or replace FSM in applications requiring a larger stroke, at the expense of motion speed. In the presented setup, the mirror tilt resolution achieved based on the encoder closed-loop signal feedback is 45 μrad, with a mean slew rate of 1.5 mrad/s. Importantly, the steering assembly is self-locking, requiring no power to maintain a steady pointing angle. Using the mirror to actively correct for a constantly moving incoming beam, a 5-fold increase in concentration of the beam spot on the center of the detector was obtained compared to a fixed position mirror, demonstrating the mirrors ability to correct for satellite platform jitter and drift. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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19 pages, 4283 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Space Telescopes’ Thermal Performance through Uncertainty Analysis: Identification of Critical Parameters and Shaping Test Strategy Development
by Uxia Garcia-Luis, Alejandro M. Gomez-San-Juan, Fermin Navarro-Medina, Carlos Ulloa-Sande, Alfonso Yñigo-Rivera and Alba Eva Peláez-Santos
Aerospace 2024, 11(3), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11030231 - 15 Mar 2024
Viewed by 811
Abstract
The integration of uncertainty analysis methodologies allows for improving design efficiency, particularly in the context of instruments that demand precise pointing accuracy, such as space telescopes. Focusing on the VINIS Earth observation telescope developed by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC), this [...] Read more.
The integration of uncertainty analysis methodologies allows for improving design efficiency, particularly in the context of instruments that demand precise pointing accuracy, such as space telescopes. Focusing on the VINIS Earth observation telescope developed by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC), this paper reports an uncertainty analysis on a thermal model aimed at improving cost savings in the future testing phases. The primary objective was to identify critical parameters impacting thermal performance and reduce overdesign. Employing the Statistical Error Analysis (SEA) method across several operational scenarios, the research identifies key factors, including the Earth’s infrared temperature and albedo, and the spacecraft’s attitude and environmental conditions, as the variables with major influences on the system’s thermal performance. Ultimately, the findings suggest that uncertainty-based analysis is a potent tool for guiding thermal control system design in space platforms, promoting efficiency and reliability. This methodology not only provides a framework for optimizing thermal design and testing in space missions but also ensures that instruments like the VINIS telescope maintain optimal operating temperatures in diverse space environments, thereby increasing mission robustness and enabling precise resource allocation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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23 pages, 1614 KiB  
Article
Spectral Imager of the Solar Atmosphere: The First Extreme-Ultraviolet Solar Integral Field Spectrograph Using Slicers
by Ariadna Calcines Rosario, Frederic Auchère, Alain Jody Corso, Giulio Del Zanna, Jaroslav Dudík, Samuel Gissot, Laura A. Hayes, Graham S. Kerr, Christian Kintziger, Sarah A. Matthews, Sophie Musset, David Orozco Suárez, Vanessa Polito, Hamish A. S. Reid and Daniel F. Ryan
Aerospace 2024, 11(3), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11030208 - 07 Mar 2024
Viewed by 917
Abstract
Particle acceleration, and the thermalisation of energetic particles, are fundamental processes across the universe. Whilst the Sun is an excellent object to study this phenomenon, since it is the most energetic particle accelerator in the Solar System, this phenomenon arises in many other [...] Read more.
Particle acceleration, and the thermalisation of energetic particles, are fundamental processes across the universe. Whilst the Sun is an excellent object to study this phenomenon, since it is the most energetic particle accelerator in the Solar System, this phenomenon arises in many other astrophysical objects, such as active galactic nuclei, black holes, neutron stars, gamma ray bursts, solar and stellar coronae, accretion disks and planetary magnetospheres. Observations in the Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) are essential for these studies but can only be made from space. Current spectrographs operating in the EUV use an entrance slit and cover the required field of view using a scanning mechanism. This results in a relatively slow image cadence in the order of minutes to capture inherently rapid and transient processes, and/or in the spectrograph slit ‘missing the action’. The application of image slicers for EUV integral field spectrographs is therefore revolutionary. The development of this technology will enable the observations of EUV spectra from an entire 2D field of view in seconds, over two orders of magnitude faster than what is currently possible. The Spectral Imaging of the Solar Atmosphere (SISA) instrument is the first integral field spectrograph proposed for observations at ∼180 Å combining the image slicer technology and curved diffraction gratings in a highly efficient and compact layout, while providing important spectroscopic diagnostics for the characterisation of solar coronal and flare plasmas. SISA’s characteristics, main challenges, and the on-going activities to enable the image slicer technology for EUV applications are presented in this paper. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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29 pages, 22999 KiB  
Article
Basic Orbit Design and Maneuvers for Satellite Constellations Deployed Using Momentum Exchange Tethers
by Ben Campbell and Lawrence Dale Thomas
Aerospace 2024, 11(3), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11030182 - 25 Feb 2024
Viewed by 950
Abstract
This article describes a new alternative approach to satellite constellation deployment by incorporating momentum exchange tethers (METs). Traditional methods of deploying satellite constellations have limitations, typically involving costly propulsion systems and extended dispersion times. METs offer a novel solution by efficiently transferring momentum [...] Read more.
This article describes a new alternative approach to satellite constellation deployment by incorporating momentum exchange tethers (METs). Traditional methods of deploying satellite constellations have limitations, typically involving costly propulsion systems and extended dispersion times. METs offer a novel solution by efficiently transferring momentum between tethered objects, reducing the need for onboard propellants and streamlining the deployment process. This article discusses orbit design and maneuvers for different mission architectures using asymmetrical and symmetrical tether release techniques to deploy satellites into designated orbits. In addition, a short walkthrough of designing one possible constellation is given, showing how quickly a MET-deployed constellation can be established in low Earth orbit (LEO). This work contributes to ongoing research investigating the applicability of METs in satellite constellation deployments, which could potentially be a new opportunity for MET technology to start seeing routine usage in the space environment, and also enable new constellation architectures that have not yet been realized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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15 pages, 4271 KiB  
Article
Structural Flexibility Effect on Spaceborne Solar Observation System’s Micro-Vibration Response
by Lin Yang, Yansong Wang, Lei Wei and Yao Chen
Aerospace 2024, 11(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11010065 - 10 Jan 2024
Viewed by 751
Abstract
The spaceborne solar observation system is crucial for the study of space phenomena such as solar flares, which requires high tracking accuracy. This study presents a coupling model that integrates mechanical, electrical, and control models to investigate the structural flexibility effect on the [...] Read more.
The spaceborne solar observation system is crucial for the study of space phenomena such as solar flares, which requires high tracking accuracy. This study presents a coupling model that integrates mechanical, electrical, and control models to investigate the structural flexibility effect on the micro-vibration response. We established a rigid–flexible model using mechanical parts. We considered the influence of flexible features while studying the dynamic responses in its operation. The state-space equations of the system showed that modal frequency, damping, and modal participation factors played significant roles. We derived transfer functions using the Laplace transform of the coupling models to better understand this mechanism, and Simulink models were thereby established. We simulated the acceleration responses of the rigid–flexible and rigid models under angle tracking modes, and the results showed significant differences. We also simulated the acceleration responses of the models under various control frequencies, and the optimal control frequency was thus obtained. Finally, we performed experiments, and the results indicated that the rigid–flexible model could better predict the motion and acceleration responses for the spaceborne solar observation system. This study provides valuable information for understanding the role of flexible features in space performance high-tracking accuracy instruments and for micro-vibration suppression research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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16 pages, 6700 KiB  
Article
Topology Optimization of a Single-Point Diamond-Turning Fixture for a Deployable Primary Mirror Telescope
by Cyril Bourgenot, Valdis Krumins, David G. Bramall and Abdul M. Haque
Aerospace 2024, 11(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11010050 - 04 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1526
Abstract
CubeSats, known for their compact size and cost effectiveness, have gained significant popularity. However, their limited size imposes restrictions on the optical aperture and, consequently, the Ground Resolution Distance in Earth Observation missions. To overcome this limitation, the concept of deployable optical payloads [...] Read more.
CubeSats, known for their compact size and cost effectiveness, have gained significant popularity. However, their limited size imposes restrictions on the optical aperture and, consequently, the Ground Resolution Distance in Earth Observation missions. To overcome this limitation, the concept of deployable optical payloads with segmented primary mirrors which can unfold like petals has emerged, enabling larger synthetic apertures and enhanced spatial resolution. This study explores the potential benefits of leveraging Additive Manufacturing (AM) and Topology Optimization (TO) in the realm of ultra-precision machining, specifically single-point diamond machining. The goal is to reduce fixture weight while improving stiffness to minimize deformations caused by rotational and cutting forces which compromise optical performance. Through Finite Element Analysis, this research compares conventionally machined fixtures with those produced using AM and TO techniques. The results reveal that concept designs created via TO can achieve a remarkable 68% reduction in weight. This reduction makes the assembly, including the machining fixture and 12 U deployable segments, manageable by a single operator without the need for specialized lifting equipment. Moreover, these innovative designs lead to substantial reductions of up to 86% and 51% in deformation induced by rotational and cutting forces, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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23 pages, 8756 KiB  
Article
The Solar Particle Acceleration Radiation and Kinetics (SPARK) Mission Concept
by Hamish A. S. Reid, Sophie Musset, Daniel F. Ryan, Vincenzo Andretta, Frédéric Auchère, Deborah Baker, Federico Benvenuto, Philippa Browning, Éric Buchlin, Ariadna Calcines Rosario, Steven D. Christe, Alain Jody Corso, Joel Dahlin, Silvia Dalla, Giulio Del Zanna, Carsten Denker, Jaroslav Dudík, Robertus Erdélyi, Ilaria Ermolli, Lyndsay Fletcher, Andrzej Fludra, Lucie M. Green, Mykola Gordovskyy, Salvo L. Guglielmino, Iain Hannah, Richard Harrison, Laura A. Hayes, Andrew R. Inglis, Natasha L. S. Jeffrey, Jana Kašparová, Graham S. Kerr, Christian Kintziger, Eduard P. Kontar, Säm Krucker, Timo Laitinen, Philippe Laurent, Olivier Limousin, David M. Long, Shane A. Maloney, Paolo Massa, Anna Maria Massone, Sarah Matthews, Tomasz Mrozek, Valery M. Nakariakov, Susanna Parenti, Michele Piana, Vanessa Polito, Melissa Pesce-Rollins, Paolo Romano, Alexis P. Rouillard, Clementina Sasso, Albert Y. Shih, Marek Stęślicki, David Orozco Suárez, Luca Teriaca, Meetu Verma, Astrid M. Veronig, Nicole Vilmer, Christian Vocks and Alexander Warmuthadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Aerospace 2023, 10(12), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10121034 - 15 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1432
Abstract
Particle acceleration is a fundamental process arising in many astrophysical objects, including active galactic nuclei, black holes, neutron stars, gamma-ray bursts, accretion disks, solar and stellar coronae, and planetary magnetospheres. Its ubiquity means energetic particles permeate the Universe and influence the conditions for [...] Read more.
Particle acceleration is a fundamental process arising in many astrophysical objects, including active galactic nuclei, black holes, neutron stars, gamma-ray bursts, accretion disks, solar and stellar coronae, and planetary magnetospheres. Its ubiquity means energetic particles permeate the Universe and influence the conditions for the emergence and continuation of life. In our solar system, the Sun is the most energetic particle accelerator, and its proximity makes it a unique laboratory in which to explore astrophysical particle acceleration. However, despite its importance, the physics underlying solar particle acceleration remain poorly understood. The SPARK mission will reveal new discoveries about particle acceleration through a uniquely powerful and complete combination of γ-ray, X-ray, and EUV imaging and spectroscopy at high spectral, spatial, and temporal resolutions. SPARK’s instruments will provide a step change in observational capability, enabling fundamental breakthroughs in our understanding of solar particle acceleration and the phenomena associated with it, such as the evolution of solar eruptive events. By providing essential diagnostics of the processes that drive the onset and evolution of solar flares and coronal mass ejections, SPARK will elucidate the underlying physics of space weather events that can damage satellites and power grids, disrupt telecommunications and GPS navigation, and endanger astronauts in space. The prediction of such events and the mitigation of their potential impacts are crucial in protecting our terrestrial and space-based infrastructure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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13 pages, 1422 KiB  
Article
Optical Design of a Miniaturised Solar Magnetograph for Space Applications
by Ariadna Calcines Rosario, Lucie M. Green, Alan Smith and David M. Long
Aerospace 2023, 10(12), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10121028 - 13 Dec 2023
Viewed by 999
Abstract
Measuring the Sun’s magnetic field is a key component of monitoring solar activity and forecasting space weather. The main goal of the research presented in this paper is to investigate the possibility of reducing the dimensions and weight of a solar magnetograph while [...] Read more.
Measuring the Sun’s magnetic field is a key component of monitoring solar activity and forecasting space weather. The main goal of the research presented in this paper is to investigate the possibility of reducing the dimensions and weight of a solar magnetograph while preserving its optical quality. This article presents a range of different designs, along with their advantages and disadvantages, and an analysis of the optical performance of each. All proposed designs are based on the magneto-optical filter (MOF) technique. As a result of the design study, a miniaturised solar magnetograph is proposed with an ultra-compact layout. The dimensions are 345 mm × 54 mm × 54 mm, and the optical quality is almost at the diffraction limit. The design has an entrance focal ratio of F/17.65, with a plate scale of 83.58 arcsec/mm at the telescope image focal plane, and produces a magnification of 0.79. The field of view is 1920 arcsec in diameter, equivalent to ±0.27 degrees, sufficient to cover the entire solar disk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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15 pages, 1984 KiB  
Article
CMAG: A Mission to Study and Monitor the Inner Corona Magnetic Field
by David Orozco Suárez, Jose Carlos del Toro Iniesta, Francisco Javier Bailén Martínez, María Balaguer Jiménez, Daniel Álvarez García, Daniel Serrano, Luis F. Peñin, Alicia Vázquez-Ramos, Luis Ramón Bellot Rubio, Julia Atienzar, Isabel Pérez Grande, Ignacio Torralbo Gimeno, Esteban Sanchis Kilders, José Luis Gasent Blesa, David Hernández Expósito, Basilio Ruiz Cobo, Javier Trujillo Bueno, Robertus Erdélyi, Jackie A. Davies, Lucie M. Green, Sarah A. Matthews, David M. Long, Michail Mathioudakis, Christian Kintziger, Jorrit Leenaarts, Silvano Fineschi and Eamon Scullionadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Aerospace 2023, 10(12), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10120987 - 23 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1085
Abstract
Measuring magnetic fields in the inner corona, the interface between the solar chromosphere and outer corona, is of paramount importance if we aim to understand the energetic transformations taking place there, and because it is at the origin of processes that lead to [...] Read more.
Measuring magnetic fields in the inner corona, the interface between the solar chromosphere and outer corona, is of paramount importance if we aim to understand the energetic transformations taking place there, and because it is at the origin of processes that lead to coronal heating, solar wind acceleration, and of most of the phenomena relevant to space weather. However, these measurements are more difficult than mere imaging because polarimetry requires differential photometry. The coronal magnetograph mission (CMAG) has been designed to map the vector magnetic field, line-of-sight velocities, and plane-of-the-sky velocities of the inner corona with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolutions from space. This will be achieved through full vector spectropolarimetric observations using a coronal magnetograph as the sole instrument on board a spacecraft, combined with an external occulter installed on another spacecraft. The two spacecraft will maintain a formation flight distance of 430 m for coronagraphic observations, which requires a 2.5 m occulter disk radius. The mission will be preferentially located at the Lagrangian L5 point, offering a significant advantage for solar physics and space weather research. Existing ground-based instruments face limitations such as atmospheric turbulence, solar scattered light, and long integration times when performing coronal magnetic field measurements. CMAG overcomes these limitations by performing spectropolarimetric measurements from space with an external occulter and high-image stability maintained over time. It achieves the necessary sensitivity and offers a spatial resolution of 2.5″ and a temporal resolution of approximately one minute, in its nominal mode, covering the range from 1.02 solar radii to 2.5 radii. CMAG relies on proven European technologies and can be adapted to enhance any other solar mission, offering potential significant advancements in coronal physics and space weather modeling and monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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17 pages, 4482 KiB  
Article
Performance Analysis of Inter-Satellite and Satellite-Ground Communication: A Report on Flight Data for a Low Earth Orbit CubeSat
by Miguel Limón-González, Enrique Rafael García-Sánchez, Héctor Simón Vargas-Martínez, Nicolás Quiroz-Hernández and Selene Edith Maya-Rueda
Aerospace 2023, 10(11), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10110973 - 20 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1465
Abstract
Communication between a nanosatellite located in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and a ground station is limited in regions far from the poles, occurring for only a few minutes on different days and at different times. By utilizing satellite-to-satellite communication, it is possible to [...] Read more.
Communication between a nanosatellite located in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and a ground station is limited in regions far from the poles, occurring for only a few minutes on different days and at different times. By utilizing satellite-to-satellite communication, it is possible to transmit and receive information more efficiently, circumventing the restrictions inherent in satellite-ground station links. The objective of this study is to present a comparative report on the results of data transmission through inter-satellite and satellite-to-ground station communication, focusing on a 1U CubeSat nanosatellite (AztechSat-1). This paper discusses the use of the GlobalStar network and a nanosatellite for inter-satellite communication. This paper also discusses the use of proprietary and open-source ground stations for satellite-ground communication. We provide an overview of the GlobalStar network and the associated ground stations involved in this research, along with the results and their subsequent analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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12 pages, 20688 KiB  
Article
Data Downloaded via Parachute from a NASA Super-Pressure Balloon
by Ellen L. Sirks, Richard Massey, Ajay S. Gill, Jason Anderson, Steven J. Benton, Anthony M. Brown, Paul Clark, Joshua English, Spencer W. Everett, Aurelien A. Fraisse, Hugo Franco, John W. Hartley, David Harvey, Bradley Holder, Andrew Hunter, Eric M. Huff, Andrew Hynous, Mathilde Jauzac, William C. Jones, Nikky Joyce, Duncan Kennedy, David Lagattuta, Jason S.-Y. Leung, Lun Li, Stephen Lishman, Thuy Vy T. Luu, Jacqueline E. McCleary, Johanna M. Nagy, C. Barth Netterfield, Emaad Paracha, Robert Purcaru, Susan F. Redmond, Jason D. Rhodes, Andrew Robertson, L. Javier Romualdez, Sarah Roth, Robert Salter, Jürgen Schmoll, Mohamed M. Shaaban, Roger Smith, Russell Smith, Sut Ieng Tam and Georgios N. Vassilakisadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Aerospace 2023, 10(11), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10110960 - 14 Nov 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 28490
Abstract
In April 2023, the superBIT telescope was lifted to the Earth’s stratosphere by a helium-filled super-pressure balloon to acquire astronomical imaging from above (99.5% of) the Earth’s atmosphere. It was launched from New Zealand and then, for 40 days, circumnavigated the globe five [...] Read more.
In April 2023, the superBIT telescope was lifted to the Earth’s stratosphere by a helium-filled super-pressure balloon to acquire astronomical imaging from above (99.5% of) the Earth’s atmosphere. It was launched from New Zealand and then, for 40 days, circumnavigated the globe five times at a latitude 40 to 50 degrees south. Attached to the telescope were four “drs” (Data Recovery System) capsules containing 5 TB solid state data storage, plus a gnss receiver, Iridium transmitter, and parachute. Data from the telescope were copied to these, and two were dropped over Argentina. They drifted 61 km horizontally while they descended 32 km, but we predicted their descent vectors within 2.4 km: in this location, the discrepancy appears irreducible below ∼2 km because of high speed, gusty winds and local topography. The capsules then reported their own locations within a few metres. We recovered the capsules and successfully retrieved all of superBIT’s data despite the telescope itself being later destroyed on landing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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11 pages, 2007 KiB  
Article
A High-Resolution Mass Spectrometer for the Experimental Study of the Gas Composition in Planetary Environments: First Laboratory Results
by Illia Zymak, Ján Žabka, Miroslav Polášek, Arnaud Sanderink, Jean-Pierre Lebreton, Bertrand Gaubicher, Barnabé Cherville, Anna Zymaková and Christelle Briois
Aerospace 2023, 10(6), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10060522 - 01 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1234
Abstract
A new laboratory OrbitrapTM cell-based mass spectrometer, OLYMPIA (Orbitrap anaLYseur MultiPle IonisAtion), without a C-trap module, has been developed and constructed. The first operation of the OrbitrapTM cell-based device with the continuous ion source and without the C-trap module is reported. [...] Read more.
A new laboratory OrbitrapTM cell-based mass spectrometer, OLYMPIA (Orbitrap anaLYseur MultiPle IonisAtion), without a C-trap module, has been developed and constructed. The first operation of the OrbitrapTM cell-based device with the continuous ion source and without the C-trap module is reported. OLYMPIA is being developed and used as a workbench platform to test and develop technologies for the next generation of spaceborne mass spectrometers and as a laboratory instrument to perform high-resolution studies of space-relevant chemical processes. This instrument has been used to measure the quantitative composition of CO/N2/C2H4 mixtures of the same nominal mass using an electron ionization ion source. The relative abundance of ions has been measured using a short acquisition time (up to 250 ms) with a precision of better than 10% (for most abundant ions) and a mass resolution of 30,000–50,000 (full width at half maximum) over the mass range of m/z 28–86. The achieved mass accuracy of measurements is better than 20 ppm. This performance level is sufficient to resolve and identify the CO/N2/C2H4 components of the mixtures. The dynamic range and relative ion abundance measurements have been evaluated using a reference normal isotopic distribution of krypton gas. The measurement accuracy is about 10% for the 4 most abundant isotopes; 6 isotopes are detectable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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17 pages, 5745 KiB  
Concept Paper
The Large Imaging Spectrometer for Solar Accelerated Nuclei (LISSAN): A Next-Generation Solar γ-ray Spectroscopic Imaging Instrument Concept
by Daniel F. Ryan, Sophie Musset, Hamish A. S. Reid, Säm Krucker, Andrea F. Battaglia, Eric Bréelle, Claude Chapron, Hannah Collier, Joel Dahlin, Carsten Denker, Ewan Dickson, Peter T. Gallagher, Iain Hannah, Natasha L. S. Jeffrey, Jana Kašparová, Eduard Kontar, Philippe Laurent, Shane A. Maloney, Paolo Massa, Anna Maria Massone, Tomasz Mrozek, Damien Pailot, Melody Pallu, Melissa Pesce-Rollins, Michele Piana, Illya Plotnikov, Alexis Rouillard, Albert Y. Shih, David Smith, Marek Steslicki, Muriel Z. Stiefel, Alexander Warmuth, Meetu Verma, Astrid Veronig, Nicole Vilmer, Christian Vocks and Anna Volparaadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Aerospace 2023, 10(12), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace10120985 - 23 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1181
Abstract
Models of particle acceleration in solar eruptive events suggest that roughly equal energy may go into accelerating electrons and ions. However, while previous solar X-ray spectroscopic imagers have transformed our understanding of electron acceleration, only one resolved image of γ-ray emission from solar [...] Read more.
Models of particle acceleration in solar eruptive events suggest that roughly equal energy may go into accelerating electrons and ions. However, while previous solar X-ray spectroscopic imagers have transformed our understanding of electron acceleration, only one resolved image of γ-ray emission from solar accelerated ions has ever been produced. This paper outlines a new satellite instrument concept—the large imaging spectrometer for solar accelerated nuclei (LISSAN)—with the capability not only to observe hundreds of events over its lifetime, but also to capture multiple images per event, thereby imaging the dynamics of solar accelerated ions for the first time. LISSAN provides spectroscopic imaging at photon energies of 40 keV–100 MeV on timescales of ≲10 s with greater sensitivity and imaging capability than its predecessors. This is achieved by deploying high-resolution scintillator detectors and indirect Fourier imaging techniques. LISSAN is suitable for inclusion in a multi-instrument platform such as an ESA M-class mission or as a smaller standalone mission. Without the observations that LISSAN can provide, our understanding of solar particle acceleration, and hence the space weather events with which it is often associated, cannot be complete. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Space Telescopes & Payloads)
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Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Title: Downloaded by parachute: data recovery from SuperBIT23
Authors: Richard Massey; Ellen Sirks
Affiliation: Durham University Physics Department
Abstract: In April-May 2023, the SuperBIT telescope flew to the Earth’s stratosphere for 40 days (and 45 nights) under a superpressure balloon. After being launched from New Zealand, it circumnavigated the globe five times, at a latitude 40-50 degrees South, repeatedly passing over Argentina and Chile. Attached to the telescope were “DRS” (Data Recovery Systems) containing a hard drive, GPS receiver and Iridium transmitter. Data from the telescope were copied to these and two were dropped, with a parachute. They were successfully tracked and recovered. All the data has been recovered safely - despite the telescope being destroyed on landing, when its (much larger) parachute failed to detach.

Title: Spitzer-Resurrector: Telerobotic Life-Extension of Spitzer for Space Weather Research & Operations
Authors: Shawn M. Usman; Giovanni G. Fazio; Christopher A. Grasso; Ryan C. Hickox; Cameo Lance; William B. Rideout; Daveanand M. Singh; Howard A. Smith; Angelos Vourlidas; Salma Benitez
Affiliation: Rhea Space Activity
Abstract: In 1979 NASA established the Great Observatory program which included four telescopes (Hubble, Compton, Chandra, and Spitzer) to explore the Universe. In 1993 NASA launched an ambitious repair mission to fix the Hubble Space Telescope’s incorrectly designed optics. In 2025, the USSF has the opportunity to telerobotically extend the life of the final Great Observatory, the Spitzer Space Telescope, to provide early alerts of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). CMEs and their associated shocks and energetic particles are the main drivers of disturbances in the near-Earth and cislunar environment, known collectively as space weather (SWx). Spitzer-Resurrector, the Telerobotic Life-Extension of Spitzer for Space Weather Research & Operations, will perform near real-time monitoring of CME plasma and magnetic content originating from the western hemisphere of the Sun directed towards Earth.

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