78 points by astrophysicist 1 year ago flag hide 20 comments
astro_engineer 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year ago next
By focusing on subsystems, the regulatory hurdles might be reduced. Decentralization of control can allow for swifter advancements.
fusion_nova 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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 1 year 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.