SATEDU the didactic satellite, from on-the job classroom training to space experimentation

Abstract

This paper introduce the didactic satellite SATEDU which was designed, manufactured and fully validated at the Institute of Engineering, UNAM (University of México), Mexico, to be used in school labs, classrooms, Universities, Post grade Engineering Schools as well as in research institutions. SATEDU was developed to train and to attract young people to the World of Science and Technology. However, it will also be used to develop and validate new satellite subsystems, as well as new technologies for real small satellites. The paper shows overall information about SATEDU subsystems and its operations. Currently, SATEDU project seeks funding to generate the final version that will include satellite practices at different levels, as well as detailed technical and operational manuals. We also carry activities towards the generation of SATEDU version with three reaction wheels to be flown in NASA's space shuttle. In addition, the paper mentions the current work made to transfer SATEDU technology into the Mexican participation in HUMSAT satellite constellation. In this case the Mexican contribution to the satellite constellation will evolve from SATEDU technology