https://github.com/gigabyteblender/2025-esa-cansatproject

ESA CanSat Competition is an educational project where students aged 14-19 design, build, and launch a miniature satellite, known as a CanSat, within the volume of a soft drink can, performing a specific mission during its descent after launch.
https://github.com/gigabyteblender/2025-esa-cansatproject

cansat cansat-competition circuitpython python3 science

Last synced: 8 months ago
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ESA CanSat Competition is an educational project where students aged 14-19 design, build, and launch a miniature satellite, known as a CanSat, within the volume of a soft drink can, performing a specific mission during its descent after launch.

• Host: GitHub
• URL: https://github.com/gigabyteblender/2025-esa-cansatproject
• Owner: GigabyteBlender
• Created: 2025-02-09T17:28:14.000Z (10 months ago)
• Default Branch: main
• Last Pushed: 2025-04-05T14:51:24.000Z (8 months ago)
• Last Synced: 2025-04-05T15:31:45.700Z (8 months ago)
• Topics: cansat, cansat-competition, circuitpython, python3, science
• Language: Python
• Homepage:
• Size: 32.3 MB
• Stars: 1
• Watchers: 1
• Forks: 0
• Open Issues: 0
• Metadata Files:
  • Readme: README.md

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README

          
# CanSat Project: A Comprehensive Space Technology Journey

## Project Overview

This project represents a holistic exploration of small satellite (CanSat) technology, showcasing the intricate process of designing, developing, and launching a miniature satellite. CanSats are small, can-sized satellites typically used for educational and research purposes, providing an excellent platform for learning about space technology, engineering, and systems integration.

## Project Objectives

- Develop a fully functional miniature satellite

- Demonstrate practical applications of aerospace engineering

- Gain hands-on experience across multiple technical disciplines

## 1. Hardware Design

- **Purpose**: Design and assemble the physical components of the CanSat

- **Key Components**:

  - Structural chassis

  - Electronic circuit boards

  - Sensor mounting systems

- **Technical Challenges**: 

  - Miniaturization of components

  - Ensuring structural integrity

  - Weight and balance optimization

- **Learning Outcomes**: 

  - Advanced electronics understanding

  - Circuit design principles

  - 3D modeling techniques using Blender

  - Practical hardware integration skills

## Photo of the 3D Model

![3D Model of CanSat](ProjectImages/img2.jpg)

## 2. Software Development

- **Purpose**: Develop software for CanSat control and data processing

- **Key Software Components**:

  - Embedded system programming

  - Real-time data acquisition

  - Telemetry processing

- **Learning Outcomes**:

  - Advanced programming skills

  - Software architecture design

  - Real-time system development

  - Efficient data processing techniques

## Example of Data Collection Software

![Data Collection Picture](ProjectImages/img3.jpg)

## 3. Data Acquisition

- **Purpose**: Collect and store comprehensive sensor data

- **Sensor Types**:

  - Environmental sensors

  - Position and orientation trackers

  - Temperature and pressure monitors

- **Learning Outcomes**:

  - Sensor integration techniques

  - Advanced data logging methodologies

  - Telemetry system design

## 4. Communication Systems

- **Purpose**: Establish robust communication between CanSat and ground station

- **Communication Technologies**:

  - Radio frequency (RF) communication

  - Signal processing techniques

  - Networking protocols

- **Learning Outcomes**:

  - Wireless communication principles

  - Signal transmission and reception

  - Reliable data link establishment

## 5. Testing and Validation

- **Purpose**: Ensure system reliability and performance

- **Testing Approaches**:

  - Comprehensive system checks

  - Simulated launch conditions

  - Stress and environmental testing

- **Learning Outcomes**:

  - Advanced testing methodologies

  - Systematic troubleshooting

  - Quality assurance techniques

## 6. Project Management

- **Purpose**: Coordinate project execution and team collaboration

- **Management Strategies**:

  - Timeline planning

  - Resource allocation

  - Risk management

- **Learning Outcomes**:

  - Project coordination skills

  - Team collaboration techniques

  - Effective communication in technical environments

### Final CanSat Configuration

![Final CanSat](ProjectImages/img1.jpg)

### Launch Day Memories

![Launch Day](ProjectImages/img.jpg)

## Conclusion

This CanSat project has been an extraordinary journey of technical discovery and personal growth. By navigating the complex challenges of designing, building, and launching a miniature satellite, I have developed a robust skill set spanning multiple engineering and technological domains.

### Key Skill Developments

- Aerospace engineering principles

- Advanced programming techniques

- Hardware design and integration

- Project management

- Teamwork and collaborative problem-solving

The experience has not only provided practical technical skills but also instilled a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in space technology projects.

**Future Aspirations**: Continue exploring innovative technologies and research aerospace engineering and satellite technologies.