Nebula Public Library

Motivation:
To provide a proof-of-concept demonstration of light rectification in a nano-rectenna as an alternative energy conversation process to semiconductor solar cells based on the photovoltaic effect. For space this alternative energy conversion process could enable applications under different environmental conditions (e.g. temperature ranges, radiation) and offer the advantage of higher theoretical conversion efficiency.
Methodology:
To provide a proof-of-concept demonstration of rectennas working at high frequencies through the development of:

The current study has evaluated the feasibility of a CubeSat anchoring device in the context of AIM mission. By enabling this capability on a Cubesat type nanosatellite, the overall AIM mission will be further augmented with in-situ scientific measurements such as close surface visual observations, on site plume ejecta monitoring, impact induced accelerations and seismic wave propagated through asteroid body, etc. Moreover, the anchoring device has a strong reuse potential in the context of SSA by the utilisation of Cubesats or small platforms for debris removal techniques.

The Crowd4Sat initiative led by Imperative Space has spanned a wide range of subject matter in Earth observation and astronomy, to test the opportunities for using citizen science and crowdsourcing (CS) in relation to data originated from satellite platforms, and to develop new workflows and techniques for rapidly incorporating data into CS platforms and generating useable results. Our particular CS approach focussed predominantly on the use of ‘human pattern recognition’, utilising established image sorting and classification platforms.

This report concisely describes the findings of the study Finnish technological capacities with regard to ESA opportunities. An analysis of the past and current space technology activities in Finland has been performed to identify structural weaknesses and strengths. Furthermore, a study has been made of the current technology developments in Finland that have led to a list of potential new space technology products that could contribute to the ESA mandatory programmes. Finally, a list of recommendations to improve the Finnish participation to the ESA programmes has been produced.