Development of a picosatellite for academic purposes for emerging countries

Abstract

In Bolivia, like in most Latin American countries space projects are increasing, and this phenomenon leads to the need to train new professionals in space issues. For this reason, universities and academic centres require specialised equipment in this area. Unfortunately, this equipment has high costs (equipment such as CubeSat kit, educational satellites, satellite kit, etc.). Due to this, the design and construction of an educational and low-cost picosatellite kit with its respective signal reception equipment were necessary. The kit consists of an educational picosatellite, with a ground station, that is intended to become the perfect tool for practical training in space engineering at different levels. Potential users range from primary schools, where STEM skills development is pursued, to university engineering courses and, even, engineering companies. Additionally, this real satellite simulator offers a wide variety of educational activities without compromising cost.