CubeSats are cube-shaped microsatellites—lightweight, compact, and affordable, yet capable of carrying space experiment payloads. They’ve become an international standard for microsatellites, used widely in academic and commercial missions.
When a CubeSat reaches orbit, it carries residual angular velocity. For accurate attitude measurement, this velocity needs to be reduced to near zero—a challenge known as the rigid body de-spinning problem.
Conventional aerodynamic moments can solve this, but magnetic control is far more convenient. It works by generating magnetic moments as the satellite moves through the central body’s magnetic field, enabling precise control. Magnetic control also plays a key role in attitude adjustment and flywheel regulation.
The actuator for this magnetic control? A magnetorquer—a magnetic moment generator that’s integral to CubeSat operations. At its core is the Magnetorquer PCB in Cube Satellite, the backbone of the magnetorquer’s functionality.
CubeSat Magnetorquer PCB: Core Function & Specifications
As the name suggests, CubeSat Magnetorquer PCB is the printed circuit board specifically designed for CubeSat magnetorquers. It’s used for initial de-rotation, attitude adjustment, and flywheel control—critical tasks for satellite stability.
From our experience with small satellite PCB fabrication, these boards have strict parameter requirements, including:
- PCB base plate with a three-axis system
- Actuator composed of three mutually perpendicular magnetic coils
- Maximum magnetic field generation of 200 mA-m²
- Total mass of 196 g
- Suitable for CubeSats up to 24 kg
Magnetic Control Advantages of Magnetorquer PCB
The Magnetorquer PCB design leverages magnetic control, which offers distinct benefits for CubeSat applications—especially given the satellite’s size and power constraints:
Low energy consumption and light weight, making it ideal for CubeSats with limited power and payload capacity. It fits easily in tight spaces, a must for compact microsatellite designs.
The design itself is simple, with no moving parts—allowing the magnetorquer to be treated as a rigid body, reducing mechanical failure risks. It also enables continuous, fine adjustments, perfect for precise attitude control.
Limitations of Magnetic Control for Magnetorquer PCB
While magnetic control is well-suited for CubeSats, it’s not without drawbacks—something we often highlight to clients during PCB design consultations:
It’s not ideal for tasks requiring high-precision control. Response time is slow, with delayed execution compared to other control methods.
Uncertainties in the surrounding magnetic field can introduce inaccuracies in control. Additionally, it’s only suitable for CubeSats up to 24 kg; larger satellites may require more robust actuation.
For reliable Magnetorquer PCB in Cube Satellite fabrication that meets orbital-grade standards, visit opcba to discuss your project requirements and get tailored PCB solutions.
