AAC Clyde Space, a space company that specializes in small satellite technologies and services that enable businesses, governments, and educational organizations to access high-quality, timely data from space has introduced Analog Sun Sensor which is specifically designed for nanosatellites.
The nanoSSOC-D60 is an AAC SpaceQuest-developed two-axis and low-cost sun sensor for high accurate sun-tracking, pointing, and attitude determination. With minimum size, weight, and power consumption it is the perfect ADCS solution for nanosatellites.
The Sun Sensor on a Chip (SSOC) architecture, achieved through a MEMS fabrication process, results in a highly integrated sensing structure providing accurate and reliable sun-tracking, pointing, and attitude determination. The SSOC device measures the incident angle of the sun’s rays in two orthogonal axes, alongside other information useful for attitude determination, via client-optional UART, I2C, or SPI communication protocol, leveraging the geometrical dimensions of the design to provide high sensitivity in a form factor perfect for small satellites.
Every sensor is calibrated, characterized, and provided with a look-up table. The use of a metal shield and cover glass over the optical eye minimizes aging in higher radiation environments.
Performance
The nanoSSOC-D60 includes a processor that provides measurements of sunlight incident angles and other information useful for attitude determination, via client-optional UART, I2C, or SPI communication protocol.
Reliable
SSOC technology has been qualified on different tests, including radiation (absorbed dose and proton beam), random vibration, shock response, outgassing, thermal, and EMC.
Heritage
With over 630 units delivered, and flight heritage on-orbit accumulating since 2009, the nanoSSOC-D60 is the perfect ADCS solution for nanosatellites.
Click here to learn more about nanoSSOC-D60.
