Mission Expectations

• As Planned:– Full end-to-end test of Akoya-Bandit

imaging and dedicated comm subsystems– Take, store, and transmit images over

900MHz and 2.4GHz links

• As Executed (Due to package changes)– Input images from cameras to FCB and

downlink via Microhard– Observe satisfactory thermal/vacuum

performance of components

Summary of Package Changes

• Elimination of Atmel as processor– Bootloader corruption– Resulted in loss of temp sensors and heaters

• Atmel used as 5V power regulator– Powered 8 LEDs

• Bypass of 900MHz video TX/RX– 12V power connection used to power Atmel/LEDs

• Simplification of power board– Malfunction of 5V line

• Possibly resulted in loss of 3.3V line, thus accelerometer and digital memory

• Removal of onboard data storage– Incompatible power requirements

Results• One confirmed and one suspected contact

– No telemetry data or pictures received• Link budget• Ground ops difficulties• Possible component failure

– Cold: unlikely, had been running hot– Batteries: popped out before whip?

• Excellent structural performance– No damage, excepting one dent in corner– Batteries loose, all other components

restrained

Image data recorded post-mission verifies system functionality.

Lessons Learned

• Microhard radio and Atmel bootloader corruption

• Linear regulators MUST NOT be installed in parallel

• Establishing link more difficult than expected

• Must have documentation and circuit diagrams available to aid team communication

Conclusions• Some programs, components, and procedures are

not mature– Power board redesign

– New Atmel programming procedure

– Improve component and procedure documentation

• Ground testing was incomplete for the complexity of the mission– Link budget verification

– Full-up system tests after modifications

– Software verification

• COTS equipment and basic design are functional– Proceed with satellite development

Winners of the 2006 Butt-Saving Award forOutstanding Contributions to Wash U’s SHOT II Payload