Commanding, Telemetry, and Software Strategy for CubeSat Laser Infrared CrosslinK (CLICK) Mission

Abstract

This work outlines the software-related requirements necessary for successful operations of the NASA-sponsored Cubesat Laser Infrared CrosslinK (CLICK) B/C mission [1] [2]. This twin-cubesat mission will demonstrate peer-to-peer laser-communication capabilities novel at this small terminal scale. Optical laser communication terminals can have lower Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) compared with traditional radio communication, as well as fewer licensing regulations and improved link security. CLICK-B/C follows from CLICK-A, a risk-reduction mission that successfully performed laser downlink with a ground station at MIT [3]. In addition to downlink, B/C will perform crosslink experiments at a data transmission rate over 20 Mbps at ranges between 20 and 580 km in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). This thesis focuses on the software related to the function of the satellite payload, in particular, the improvements and additions made to the operating system, software systems that were ported over from CLICK-A, the integration and testing of these subsystems, and analyses done to prepare for in-flight operations before launch. An overview of the MIT & UF payload hardware and electronics is given before detailing interactions with components as necessary. A deep dive into the payload software libraries, internal and external communication channels, and operating system build details are given. A description of functional testing and its results are laid out as well as a template crosslink experiment script and further specifications for mission-related analyses and pre-launch preparations. This work on software upgrades, verification, and examination is necessary for CLICK-B/C to reach its stated mission goals, here on Earth and in its orbit.