NSS CubeSat Magnetorquer Rod

Magnetorquers offer a method of controlling the attitude of a spacecraft. This can be achieved either directly, by interacting with the local Earth’s magnetic field, or in combination with reaction wheels where they allow a method of dumping excess momentum in the wheels without the need for a complex propulsion system.

The use of a magnetic alloy rod produces an amplification effect over an air cored magnetorquer. This allows a system that uses less power, which is critical for CubeSat missions. The rods can enable a mission with increased manoeuvrability and reduced detumble rates.

CubeSat Magnetorquer rods are designed to be run directly from a switched 5 Volt power output from the on-board power control system.

Main Features

Application:

• Active damping for spin stabilized, momentum biased and gravity gradient controlled CubeSats

• Momentum dumping of reaction wheels in three axis stabilized spacecraft

Testing & Heritage:

• More than 150 rods delivered to CubeSat programmes over the last 8 years.
  

Features:

• Low cost standard product

• High moment for low power

• Small size and low mass

• Simple interface

• No residual magnetic moment

Properties

• Lifetime: >10 years

• Dimensions: 70mm (length) x 9 mm (diameter)

• Overall Diameter: < 9 mm

• Mounting: tied and bounded direct to PCB

• Mass: < 30 g

• Interfaces: Coil wires solder direct to PCB pads

• Operating range: -35°C to +75°C