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A Low-Cost Model of a Poly Picosatellite Orbital Deployer for Satellite Technology Education in Developing Nations
Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology · Area of research: Engineering
Abstract
This paper reports on the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of a low-cost model Poly Picosatellite Orbital Deployer (P-POD) developed to enhance satellite engineering education in resource-limited settings. Recognizing the lack of affordable infrastructure for practical training in developing nations, the model was constructed using locally available materials, specifically Perspex and mild steel, to provide a functional yet economical alternative to flight-grade systems. The structural design was modelled and analyzed in SolidWorks to verify its mechanical integrity under simulated loads before fabrication. Performance evaluation in controlled laboratory conditions demonstrated the successful deployment of a 2U CubeSat model, achieving an average ejection velocity of 1.25 m/s within one second, closely approximating the operational standards of certified P-POD units. These results highlight the potential of such models to deliver safe, cost-effective, and pedagogically valuable tools for building local capacity in space science and engineering education, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical instruction and practical skill development.
Keywords
CubeSat, Deployment Systems, Low-cost P-POD Model, Poly Picosatellite Orbital Deployer (P-POD), Satellite Technology Education
References
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How to cite this paper
@article{1710856,
author = {Omotoso Abiodun Olutola, Yusuf Olatunbosun Tafa, Peter Mary, Olorunmotito Noah Femi},
title = {A Low-Cost Model of a Poly Picosatellite Orbital Deployer for Satellite Technology Education in Developing Nations},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {9},
number = {3},
pages = {1244-1255},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1710856.pdf},
abstract = {This paper reports on the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of a low-cost model Poly Picosatellite Orbital Deployer (P-POD) developed to enhance satellite engineering education in resource-limited settings. Recognizing the lack of affordable infrastructure for practical training in developing nations, the model was constructed using locally available materials, specifically Perspex and mild steel, to provide a functional yet economical alternative to flight-grade systems. The structural design was modelled and analyzed in SolidWorks to verify its mechanical integrity under simulated loads before fabrication. Performance evaluation in controlled laboratory conditions demonstrated the successful deployment of a 2U CubeSat model, achieving an average ejection velocity of 1.25 m/s within one second, closely approximating the operational standards of certified P-POD units. These results highlight the potential of such models to deliver safe, cost-effective, and pedagogically valuable tools for building local capacity in space science and engineering education, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical instruction and practical skill development.},
keywords = {CubeSat, Deployment Systems, Low-cost P-POD Model, Poly Picosatellite Orbital Deployer (P-POD), Satellite Technology Education},
month = {September},
}