CUBESAT ALDEBARAN TELEMETRY AND TELECOMMAND SUBSYSTEM BASED ON LORA TECHNOLOGY: DEVELOPMENT, IMPLEMENTATION, VALIDATION AND CHALLENGES

Authors

  • João Santos Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA)
  • João Marques
  • L.C. Silva,
  • C.A. Júnior
  • J.R. Júnior
  • M. Lopes

Keywords:

CubeSats, TTC, FreeRTOS, LoRa, Aldebaran

Abstract

This article presents the development and validation of the Telemetry and Telecommand (TTC) subsystem for Aldebaran 1, a 1U CubeSat from the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA) designed to assist in rescuing fishing vessels. Emphasizing a parallel programming approach and low-cost solutions, the hardware adapts a flight-proven architecture using an MSP430 microcontroller and a LoRa (Long Range) radio for primary communication in the UHF band. The software utilizes FreeRTOS for real-time task scheduling, managing separate uplink and downlink channels. Key features include a telecommand interpreter for autonomous execution with the On-Board Data Handling (OBDH) subsystem and reconfiguration mechanisms to adjust transmission power and telemetry intervals, optimizing energy consumption. For operational safety, an emergency telecommand can interrupt radio operations, while a hibernation system prevents transmission until antenna deployment is confirmed. The subsystem was validated through extensive ground tests and simulations, which confirmed its reliability and communication integrity. Final validation will be conducted in orbit based on data collected after the launch of Aldebaran 1 to enable further performance improvements. This project represents a significant milestone for UFMA's Aerospace Engineering course and the regional aerospace sector, contributing to the academic development of its students.

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Published

2025-11-10

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 1 (2025): Revista Interdisciplinar de Pesquisa em Engenharia

Section

Artigos

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Copyright (c) 2025 Revista Interdisciplinar de Pesquisa em Engenharia

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