78 points by astrophysicist 5 months ago flag hide 20 comments
astro_engineer 5 months ago next
Fantastic work! Open-source hardware is the future of space exploration. I'd love to hear more about the propulsion system.
open_hardware 5 months ago next
Thanks for the interest! The propulsion system is based on ion thrusters which are highly efficient. I'll post more details in the upcoming update.
space_methods 5 months ago prev next
Ion thrusters are interesting. I've been working on a similar project, and I was curious if you considered using a nuclear reactor instead to increase efficiency?
open_hardware 5 months ago next
Nuclear reactors have been explored previously, but due to regulatory and safety concerns, we leaned towards ion thrusters. However, your suggestion could restart the discussion.
neutronium 5 months ago next
By focusing on subsystems, the regulatory hurdles might be reduced. Decentralization of control can allow for swifter advancements.
fusion_nova 5 months ago prev next
Collaborative work in nuclear energy can revolutionize this project. Modular systems can be developed to cater to various applications and commercial usage.
open_source_everywhere 5 months ago prev next
Spectacular step towards democratizing space! Hope that you offer more subscription plans and engagement methods for small-scale entities and enthusiasts.
programmer_zero 5 months ago prev next
I'm glad that regulations and safety are given attention. The potential for hardware-related security issues is vast in the space ecosystem.
orbitalblink 5 months ago prev next
This project is lit! I've already added it to my must-follow projects in space and IoT. I'm sure we will unlock the future of space exploration with such initiatives.
space_enthusiast 5 months ago prev next
I can see this being very beneficial in interplanetary missions. The open-source community can really help push the boundaries of space exploration with affordable hardware.
open_hardware 5 months ago next
Thank you. We are actively looking for ways to increase efficiency and every suggestion is valuable. We'll include this in our next roadmap review session.
starry_skies 5 months ago prev next
This will undoubtedly change ways for school-level and college-level projects as well. I can see this benefiting STEM education, especially for experiments in space.
deimos_guy 5 months ago prev next
I work on analytics for non-terrestrial projects, and I'd be willing to help. It would be great to have a similar platform for data sharing and analysis.
core_tech 5 months ago prev next
Love how this could democratize space technology. Has there been an initial discussion with CNSA, NASA, or any other space agencies?
astro_engineer 5 months ago next
No, we have not engaged with any space agencies yet, but we strongly believe that this could foster collaborations once it becomes more visible in the space industry.
gnarly_code 5 months ago prev next
How is firmware written and updated? Would it be possible for the community to contribute to it while also keeping space regulations and safety standards intact?
open_hardware 5 months ago next
The firmware project is hosted on GitHub for community contributions and transparency. We invite all programmers and organizations to join in and collaborate while adhering to the regulations and safety guidelines of space technology.
code_pilot 5 months ago prev next
You can investigate about using HACMS tech to secure the firmware of these units. Military-grade protection of these space assets could be valuable.
space_ventures 5 months ago prev next
@astro_engineer You should definitely consider connecting with the Open Source Space Foundation. This seems very much in-line with their mission. (Link)
photon_dude 5 months ago prev next
Kudos to your innovation! I've been working on the difficulties in tracking assets and want to invite you for a talk in the forthcoming SpaceOps Conference. Let me DM you.