The Technology
Cornerstones of the SpaceSeed
Autorotation
Autorotation is the unpowered flight of a rotorcraft. It is commonly used by helicopters in case of an engine failure to safely land. Autorotation offers many benefits compared to parachutes due to their steerability and controllability. With Daedalus 2 we want to prove that Autorotation is a viable alternative to other decelerator technologies, mainly parachutes. Our Simulation and Control Team had the task to model the effects and behaviors associated with Autorotation. Upon the model, we created a simulation to simulated the flight. With this, we were able to create the flight controller. One of the most crucial elements of our mission.
Electronics
Our custom-developed electronics have a multitude of features.
- Satellite Link via Iridium, crucial for data collection and recovery
- GPS, to locate the SpaceSeed and track the trajectory
- High Load Accelerometer
- Low-Pressure Barometer
- Vibration save interconnectors
- Typical IMU
- A multitude of Temperature Sensors
Structures and Mechanisms
Re-entry is one of the most straining applications for a spacecraft. Our mechanics team has developed highly advanced systems that can withstand these loads. Moreover, a special focus was on the blade deployment system. Without this the SpaceSeeds would not be able to fit in the tight space of the REXUS 29 rocket and fly.
Software
One of our core features was software. Building upon the well-developed and flight-proven RODOS Realtime OS, we created SeedOS. This system has to handle a multitude of Sensors, communicate with Mission Control, and flight the SpaceSeed. All at once! We also developed safety mechanisms that are able to handle failures, restarts, or other unforeseen events. Our Software Team worked day and night for this and created a very advanced flight software that we are all proud of!
