Thermal analysis and experimental validation of the thermal subsystem of AlAinSat-1

Abstract

This study examines the thermal management strategies employed by AlAinSat-1 to endure extreme space conditions. It provides an in-depth analysis of the satellite’s thermal behavior through numerical simulations and validates its ability to function in space using experimental testing. AlAinSat-1 is a nanosatellite designed in the shape of a cube, equipped with an Earth observation payload. The thermal analysis was performed using Siemens NX software, following a structured process that included idealization, meshing, and the application of boundary conditions. Simulations were conducted to evaluate the CubeSat’s performance in the worst-case hot and cold scenarios, predicting the temperature range required for mission success. Simulation results confirm that AlAinSat-1 can withstand extreme space conditions, with all components remaining within their operational temperature ranges. To validate these findings, bakeout and thermal vacuum cycling tests were performed using a small Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVAC). The bakeout test, conducted at 50 °C for five hours, aimed to eliminate volatile contaminants from the CubeSat’s sensitive components, reducing the risk of outgassing. This test achieved a 0.1 % total mass loss, indicating success. The thermal vacuum cycling test involved four cycles ranging from −20 °C to + 50 °C, with a dwell time of one hour per cycle. These tests confirmed the operational temperature range of the CubeSat’s components. The experimental results were consistent with the simulations, demonstrating that all components of AlAinSat-1 functioned effectively within their designated temperature limits. This alignment validates the thermal management approach and ensures the CubeSat’s readiness for space deployment.