CubeSat flight software : insights and a case study
Eshaq, Mohammed and Zitouni, M. Sami and Atalla, Shadi and Al-Mansoori, Saeed and Macdonald, Malcolm (2025) CubeSat flight software : insights and a case study. Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets. ISSN 0022-4650 (https://doi.org/10.2514/1.A35882)
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Abstract
The development of efficient flight software (FSW) for CubeSats faces significant challenges due to lack of mainstream guidelines and frameworks. Addressing the challenge of developing such FSW within the ever evolving yet stringent hardware constraints forms the core of this study. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of FSW specifications, development challenges, and proposes a novel approach to software design that maximizes functionality while adhering to hardware limitations. It begins by scrutinizing current trends in CubeSat FSW, emphasizing the significance of modularity and reusability for successful, adaptable, and repeatable space missions. Drawing from a diverse array of literature sources, various aspects of CubeSat FSW is explored, encompassing design methodologies, subsystems, mission applications, reliability, fault tolerance, testing, validation, and communication. Subsequently, a case study is introduced featuring an app-based FSW solution tailored for a 12U CubeSat with a 5G Internet-of-Things payload and green propulsion. This case study incorporates insights from the literature review, featuring a service-oriented. The FSW solution includes a user-friendly command line interface for efficient onboard and ground communication, a script engine for timely in-orbit execution and payload control, and a bootloader for in-mission updates, enhancing adaptability and future readiness. The analysis and case study reaffirm the pivotal role of robust and efficient flight software in mission success, while underscoring the need for freely available, modular, and reusable solutions to foster innovation in the field, ultimately reducing reliance on commercial products or continual redevelopment.
ORCID iDs
Eshaq, Mohammed

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Item type: Article ID code: 91627 Dates: DateEvent10 March 2025Published10 March 2025Published Online16 December 2024AcceptedSubjects: Technology > Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics > Aeronautics. Aeronautical engineering
Technology > Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics > Astronautics. Space travelDepartment: Technology and Innovation Centre > Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing
Faculty of Engineering > Electronic and Electrical EngineeringDepositing user: Pure Administrator Date deposited: 19 Dec 2024 12:46 Last modified: 14 Mar 2025 13:50 Related URLs: URI: https://strathprints.strath.ac.uk/id/eprint/91627