Part: CubeSense V3
Doc: User Manual
Ver:
1.11
Page: 3
1.
Introduction
The CubeSense module is an integrated sun or nadir sensor for CubeSat attitude sensing. It
makes use of a CMOS camera that is configured for either sun sensing or for horizon detection.
If configured as a sun sensor, a neutral density filter is included in the optics to ensure that
only the sun will be visible in the image. The camera has wide field-of-view optics (200 degrees)
for increased operating range.
The primary output of the sensor is the measured sun/
nadir vector in the sensor’s coordinate
frame. The measured vectors are output as angles relative to the camera bore-sight. If the
CubeSense is configured as a nadir sensor then it can also be used as a camera to capture and
download 1024x1024 pixel greyscale images.
This document is only applicable to CubeSense V3.
The unit contains a variety of static sensitive devices. The appropriate electrostatic
protection measures must thus be implemented.
The unit must never be handled
without proper grounding.
It is recommended that the unit be handled in a clean environment. A clean room of ISO
class 8 or better or an appropriate laminar flow workbench is recommended.
The unit should be
kept free of moisture or liquids.
Liquids and moisture could have
corrosive effects on the electronics and electronic joints which may lead to degradation
and loss of reliability of the circuits.
The unit must be handled with care and
dropping or bumping the unit should be
completely avoided.
The camera
lens should be kept clean
and free of any dirt that may obstruct the images
captured by the camera. Dust should be removed with a cloth. If required, the lens may
be cleaned using ethanol and appropriate lens cleaning equipment, but unnecessary
cleaning of the lens should be avoided.
The optics are fitted with a
dust cap which should be removed before flight
.
The position of the lens relative to the image sensor is of extreme importance for
accurate detection.
Any external force on the lens or lens holder should be
completely avoided.
Please read Section 4(Important Usage Considerations) very carefully.
