Dual Frequency Global Positioning System Receiver for CubeSat Space Missions

ABSTRACT: Austin Satellite Design proposes to deliver a viable design of an integrated Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for use on CubeSats and larger spacecraft at the conclusion of Phase 1 of this SBIR. A compact, low-power GPS receiver is essential to the success of Operationally Responsive Space (ORS) missions using small satellites.The new GPS receiver will fit within a PC-104 circuit board form factor suitable for installation within a standard 10 cm by 10 cm by 10 cm volume known as a CubeSat. The design will use Plug-and-Play methods that will make it rapidly integratable with a flight-ready satellite bus. The new GPS receiver will have a dual frequency capability using the modernized GPS signal, including the civilian L1 and L2C signals, that will enable sub-meter level real-time positioning in space and centimeter level near real-time post-processed positioning. Depending on selected design options, the new receiver will be designed to operate with a total mass of less than 350 grams, orbit average power of less than a watt, and installed volume of less than 10 cm by 5 cm by 5 cm. As part of the Phase 1 design activity, a radiation hardened upgrade path (to approximately 30 KRad total dose) will be defined. BENEFIT: The development of a commercially available dual-frequency GPS receiver which could be flown on Cubesats and larger vehicles is highly relevant for many ORS missions. On-orbit real-time positioning and precise orbit determination would turn small satellites into sophisticated sensor platforms. Because of the relatively low cost and rapid launch ability of small satellites, many ORS program objectives could potentially be met by this technology. The ability to use the same GPS receiver in multiple orbit types (LEO, HEO, and GEO) and the creation of a radiation hardened option further increase the utility of the device.