SERPENT 2025
Sensor group
The sensor team in SERPENT is responsible for designing and implementing the core distance measurement system for our mission. This system is crucial for ensuring precise verification of the separation distance between our two cubesats, laying the groundwork for future space technology advancements.
How the Distance Measurement Works
Low-Latency Design
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The entire measurement system is controlled by an ESP32 microcontroller, which handles clock synchronization, measurement timing, radio transmission, and data processing.
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The ESP32 is chosen for its ability to provide low-latency operations, which is critical as our measurements operate in the nanosecond range.
Stage 1: Synchronization Ping
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The two cubesats, referred to as Blue and Yellow, initiate the process by synchronizing their internal clocks.
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A Real-Time Clock (RTC) ensures both cubesats maintain accurate timing. The ESP32 generates and transmits synchronization signals via RF communication, with the timing data logged by the TDC7200 Time-to-Digital Converter
Stage 2: Ping Reception and Timing
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After synchronization, one cubesat sends a "ping" signal via its RF module. The receiving cubesat, using the TDC7200, captures the exact time of signal arrival.
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The ESP32 controls the process and ensures precise timing and minimal delays throughout the operation.
Stage 3: Data Verification
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Once the pings are exchanged, the cubesats use the ESP-NOW WiFi protocol for internal communication. This allows them to compare and verify the measured timing data, ensuring accuracy.
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The verified data is then stored and transmitted to the ground station for further analysis.
Narvik Studentersamfunn Serpent Project
Org.nr: 988727695
Lodve Langes gate 2
8514 Narvik Norge
Email: Serpent@samfunnet.no