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CubeSat
Haileybury CubeSat Programme:
Pioneering Space Exploration in Education
Our groundbreaking CubeSat programme aims to position Haileybury as the first secondary school in Europe to launch a CubeSat into space, offering our pupils an unparalleled opportunity to engage in real-world space research and engineering.
Programme Overview
The Haileybury CubeSat programme brings together pupils from various year groups to collaborate on the development and launch of a miniaturised satellite. CubeSats are small, cube-shaped satellites used by research institutions for cost-effective space exploration. Our programme will provide pupils with hands-on experience in:
- Spacecraft systems engineering
- Space mission planning
- Orbital mechanics, optics, electronics and programming
- CubeSat construction and engineering principles
Project Phases
Mission planning: Pupils will develop a comprehensive mission plan outlining the CubeSat’s objectives. The current mission goal involves using an Optical Camera for environmental monitoring from low Earth orbit.
Research and Development: Pupils are undertaking in-depth research across multiple disciplines, including optics, electronics, programming, and orbital mechanics, to determine technical requirements and select appropriate hardware.
Design and Construction: Utilising SciTech’s advanced 3D printing facilities, pupils are creating models of potential CubeSat designs.
Documentation: Mirroring professional laboratory practices, pupils will maintain detailed documentation throughout the multi-year project.
Communication and Outreach: An essential aspect of the programme involves pupils sharing their progress with the Haileybury community and beyond, seeking industry partnerships to facilitate the CubeSat’s launch.
Industry Partnership
We are thrilled to announce our partnership with BAE Systems, a world leader in spacecraft engineering. This collaboration will provide our pupils with invaluable industry expertise and support in achieving our goal of launching the CubeSat.
Pupil Leadership
The programme has adopted a professional management structure, mirroring those found in the spacecraft engineering sector. Sixth Formers have taken on the roles of Project and Engineering Managers, respectively, ensuring effective communication and leadership throughout the project.