Development of an Origami Deployable CubeSat Aeroshell

Abstract

The active pursuit of new ventures in space calls for innovation in miniaturized systems to be able to pack greater mission capability into smaller spacecraft. CubeSats and other small satellites are increasingly popular for a range of space missions as they lower the cost to develop and launch as rideshares with other spacecraft. Yet as space becomes more accessible, Earth orbit becomes progressively cluttered with defunct satellites and other debris, threatening both active satellites and usable orbits for future missions. A CubeSat de-orbit device can expedite satellite disposal by lowering its orbit. As the role of CubeSats continues to expand, a de-orbit system also presents opportunities for atmospheric re-entry, enabling revolutionary mission capabilities such as in situ data collection, sample return, payload reusability, and planetary exploration.

An origami deployable aeroshell concept is presented as a viable and robust system architecture designed for de-orbit and re-entry of a CubeSat. By augmenting drag area, the aeroshell can accelerate orbital decay of a CubeSat from as high as sun-synchronous orbit to eventually re-enter the Earth's atmosphere. While CubeSats are limited by strict mass and volume requirements, the design leverages an innovative origami pattern to compactly stow and deploy a flexible and insulating aeroshell. Through practical design, simple manufacturing, and the use of commercially available materials, the aeroshell may be readily integrated with virtually any single unit CubeSat and has the potential to be extended to other small satellite form factors. Widespread adoption of such a system may inspire pioneering small satellite missions, encourage greater compliance with orbital debris standards, and progress international collaboration in expanding global access to space.