AE 445: SPACECRAFT DETAIL DESIGN
L .E.A.P. Student Lead: Lacy Pyle Student Team Members: Natalie Carroll, Braden Hass, Lacy Pyle, Roee Shemesh, Hamim Vali, Jimi Wadnola Faculty: Dr. Karl Siebold and Dr. Matthew Haslam Sustained lunar exploration requires a reliable energy system capable of operating through extreme conditions, including prolonged periods of darkness. The Lunar Energy Access Program (L.E.A.P.) investigates a regenerative power solution that integrates solar energy, water electrolysis, and a hydrogen fuel cell to enable continuous power generation. A scaled-down prototype demonstrates this concept in a controlled, Earth-based environment. During simulated daylight, solar panels supply power to a battery and drive an electrolysis system that produces hydrogen and oxygen from provided distilled water. Generated oxygen is immediately vented to the atmosphere and hydrogen is temporarily stored in a custom-built tank. To simulate nighttime power generation, a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell, operating on the generated hydrogen and ambient air, generates electricity to sustain continuous power output. A manual switch transitions the system between power sources, allowing real-time validation of energy flow. Two light bulbs serve as the primary load, providing a clear visual representation of power availability and system functionality. By constructing and refining both the electrolysis and fuel cell systems, this project provides hands-on validation of key energy conversion principles. The results contribute to the development of regenerative power architectures for space applications, supporting the feasibility of long-duration lunar infrastructure. ODIN Student Lead: Shea Schmidt Student Team Members: John Anderson, Cole Brunson, Elliot Chubon, Adrien Hobelman, Andrew Reynolds Faculty: Dr. Karl Siebold and Dr. Matthew Haslam The Orbital Debris Identification Network (ODIN) addresses the escalating challenge of orbital debris that jeopardizes critical space infrastructure and human spaceflight . ODIN is a scalable, space-based platform that leverages advanced control moment gyroscopes and multi-sensor technology to detect and track debris smaller than 10 cm in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This system provides near real-time, precise orbital data to mitigate collision risks and support space situational awareness. By bridging current gaps in tracking capabilities, ODIN aims to safeguard orbital environments, reduce LEO satellite collisions, and extend satellite lifespans. The mission design emphasizes reliability, scalability, and affordability by integrating commercially available technologies and robust control algorithms. ODIN’s contributions will advance sustainable space operations, ensuring the viability of LEO for continuing scientific, commercial, and defense applications. ODIN is an advanced satellite testbed designed to control its attitude using control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) in a microgravity-simulated environment. It employs onboard sensors to detect, track, and point at moving objects, determining their relative position and velocity. ODIN actively manages its center of gravity with linear actuators and estimates its mass moment of inertia. Operations begin with a calibration sequence, followed by scanning the surroundings using a wide-field sensor system. Upon identifying a target, ODIN adjusts its orientation to point directly at it. A narrow-field sensor suite then refines depth measurements and gathers critical data. By integrating position, depth, and time, ODIN calculates the object’s state, simulating in-flight orbital determination.
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COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
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