Anna University’s cubesat in EU’s multi-nation project

Anna University is developing the 2-kg cubesat called Anusat-2 as part of the European Union’s project, QB50, to launch 50 cubesats simultaneously, built by universities and research labs across the world. Anna University is the only institution from India to be involved in this multinational project, coordinated by Von Karmann Institute, Belgium. 

The European Union selected Anna University from India for the project, as its first micro-satellite, Anusat-1, was a success. The cubesats will aid in research of the lower thermosphere, one of the layers of atmosphere, between an altitude of 200-380 km.

These satellites will orbit the earth in 50 different coordinates and provide readings of molecules in various forms, including oxygen in ionic form. Having tasted success with the launch of the micro-satellite Anusat-1 six years ago, the team at Anna University is now dedicated to the development of Anusat-2. 

A team led by professor A Rajadurai is currently working on the structural part of the satellite. Project coordinator professor PV Ramakrishna is also heading the electronics part, while professor Ranjani Parthasarathi from the information science and technology department is involved in developing the software. Professor B Uma Maheswari in the electrical and electronics department is responsible for electrical framework. 

Over 25 students undergraduate and postgraduate students are also involved in this project. Speaking to DT Next, Rajadurai said the Anusat-2 would be a two-kg cubesat with the dimensions of 10 cm length, 10 cm breadth and 20 cm height. Over 50 per cent of the components used in our cubesat are indigenous.” 

“The project will study the amount of oxygen in various forms in different sides of the sun, as it varies in different coordinates. This will help scientists study oxygen level in the atmosphere as it plays an important role in launch of rockets and satellites. Our vice-chancellor M Rajaram and registrar S Ganesan have asked us to expedite the project,” Rajadurai added.