Communication Architecture for CubeSats

Abstract

This paper presents the Ground Station (GS) and on-board computer (OBC) communication architectures developed for a CubeSat project at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU). We discussed the GS hardware and software architectures, the OBC system onboard the CubeSat, and the communication protocols used for the exchange of telemetry data and control signals between the GS and the OBC. Unlike the terrestrial wireless system that has a well-organized standard, there is not a unique global or regional standard for satellite systems development. Therefore, any documentation of individual experience in the development of satellite system, as is done in this paper, is a useful contribution to knowledge.