Implementing Next-Level Modularity in CubeSat Missions for Promoting Space Education

Modular architectures in small satellites and CubeSat-class satellites generally involve subsystems designed using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components that can be easily interchanged and upgraded, enabling flexibility and adaptability for educational missions. The modularity allows for easy integration of low-cost components, facilitates future expansion, and fosters collaboration among CubeSat project teams. It also opens doors for students and educators to participate in a community-driven space ecosystem. However, this type of traditional modularity still requires an onerous design process that includes much customization and development, edging it closer to a one-off CubeSat, rather than a repeatable design. The Naval Academy Standard Bus (NASB) Program revolutionizes the process of small satellite design with next-level modularity, an approach that completely separates the bus system module from the payload. NASB is a fully-functional 1U CubeSat with all requisite subsystems, including structures, electrical power systems, command and data handling, communications, and attitude stabilization. NASB integrates with a 1U or 2U payload, developed independently, using a single electrical connection for power and a payload interface board to control power usage, data transfer and data storage between NASB and the payload. NASB includes a set of assembly guidelines in the form of an Interface Control Document (ICD), which provides payload customers with the structural, electrical, and software requirements for successful integration with a standard bus module. If the payload module meets the requirements in the ICD, then it can rapidly integrate with NASB and becomes flight-ready within hours. This paper explores the concept of leveraging low-cost components and satellite bus standardization to achieve next-level modularity in educational CubeSat development.