nSIGHT 1 (QB50-AZ02)

Launch data: Designation  42726 / 98067MF Launch date  18 Apr 2017 - 15:11 UT Launch site  CC, SLC-41 Launch vehicle  Atlas V-401 Mission  Space Science, Earth observation Launch platform  ISS Kibo, LEO Deployment date  25 May 2017 - 08:35 UT Earth orbit: Perigee / Apogee  400 x 404 km Inclination   51.6° Period  92.5 min

Description:

• nSIGHT 1 is a 2U QB50-AZ02, from SCS-Space of Cape Town, South Africa.
• The main objectives of the mission is:
  • To comply with the QB50 mission objective of doing atmospheric research measurements in the lower thermosphere
  • To provide SCS-Space payload flight heritage
  • To provide training/experience for SCS-Space engineers
• The satellite will use magnetic sensors and actuators to do initial detumbling into a Y-Thompson spin after release from its deployer. After a set time after release, all deployables, including the antennas, will deploy. The satellite will then start transmitting a beacon, and start listening for communication from a groundstation. When the appropriate command is received, the satellite will activate its full suite of sensors and actuators to orientate itself in the RAM direction. During this process the spin the satellite contains in the Y-axis, is absorbed into a momentum wheel, which then provides the stabilized satellite with a momentum bias. At this point the QB50 science payload will be activated and occasionally the payload imager will be tested. Science data, telemetry data, as well as images captured by the payload camera will be sent to the ground if there is a communications opportunity.

External links:

• Amsatuk.me: Satellite Information