With the number of satellites in low earth orbit (LEO) increasing rapidly, concerns are growing about potential congestion and the risk of making the region around Earth unusable. While various solutions have been proposed, electrodynamic tethers (EDTs) are emerging as a promising technology, now entering the testing phase in space.The Spacecraft for advanced Research and Cooperative Studies (SPARCS) mission, developed by researchers at Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, seeks to advance this field by testing an EDT and an intersatellite communication system. The mission will also gather real-time data on the radiation surroundings along its orbital path.

The SPARCS mission involves two separate CubeSats. SPARCS-A, a 1U CubeSat, serves as a communications platform, designed to communicate with SPARCS-B. SPARCS-B, a 2U CubeSat,houses both the communication system and a deployable EDT. The EDT, extending up to 12 meters, is deployed using a servomotor, with a camera monitoring the deployment process.

EDTs function as long conductors that generate electric current. This current interacts with Earth’s magnetic field, producing a Lorentz force that can adjust the satellite’s orbit without fuel. By orienting the EDT, the Lorentz force can either raise the satellite to a higher orbit or, more importantly for this technology presentation, decelerate the CubeSat for a controlled atmospheric re-entry.

Why Are EDTs Important for Satellites?

The controlled re-entry capability of EDTs is particularly significant. Prior missions, including KITE from Jaxa and Mite from the University of Michigan, have explored using EDTs for orbital adjustments. While these missions faced challenges,the ongoing MiTEE-2 mission aims to deploy an even larger EDT than SPARCS.

“The controlled re-entry capability of EDTs is particularly significant.”

SPARCS also includes a dosimeter to monitor the radiation environment in its orbit. Radiation hardening is crucial for spacecraft electronics, but it can be costly. By understanding the radiation environment of common orbital paths, engineers can optimize designs for specific areas, perhaps reducing expenses.

The mission’s design has been finalized, and simulations have confirmed its expected operations. the team is now constructing an engineering model of the two CubeSats to validate the design and test its real-world implementation before launch. Despite potential challenges due to regional instability, a triumphant test and launch could mark the first demonstration of an EDT system in the near future.