CCT

The CubeSat Controls Testbed (CCT) is an ongoing project to upgrade the testing capabilities of the AggieSat Laboratory for small satellite projects. The current CCT system consists of an electromagnetic Helmholtz cage containing a rotating testbed with 3 degrees of freedom. The Helmholtz cage will enable dynamicreplication of the low Earth orbit magnetic field to test satellite electromagnetic sensors and actuators, and the rotating testbed will allow for the emulation of on-orbit attitude dynamics. More components will be added to the system over time to mimic space environments with higher fidelity, leading to more robust testing and verification of satellite systems under development in AggieSat Laboratory.

Like the other ongoing projects in AggieSat Laboratory, this project is a valuable learning opportunity for its members. CCT is a complex system, and members of the project develop disciplines such as computer-aided design (CAD), dynamics and controls, circuit design, systems engineering, and software development through hands-on experience. Students interested in joining the CCT team should check the Apply page regularly.