Title :
Wireless Sensor Motes for Small Satellite Applications
Author :
Lappas, Vaios ; Prassinos, G. ; Baker, Anthony ; Magnuss, R.
Author_Institution :
Surrey Space Centre, Surrey Univ., Guildford
Abstract :
Motes are low-cost COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) microchips, which integrate a processor, onboard sensor, RF communications link, and a power unit. High levels of power efficiency can be achieved with the use of the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol for communication between the motes, allowing long-term periods of operation for motes and reducing the power requirements of a spacecraft. The article examines the feasibility of using sensors for harness reduction between satellite subsystems, and for inter-satellite networking capabilities between satellite swarms
Keywords :
microprocessor chips; personal area networks; protocols; radio links; satellite communication; space vehicles; wireless sensor networks; COTS microchips; IEEE 802.15.4 protocol; RF communications link; commercial off-the-shelf microchips; harness reduction; inter-satellite networking capabilities; onboard sensor; power unit; satellite swarms; small satellite applications; spacecraft; wireless sensor motes; Aircraft manufacture; Artificial satellites; Communication system security; Costs; Monitoring; Power system interconnection; Space technology; Space vehicles; Testing; Wireless sensor networks; Satellite communication onboard systems; interconnections; satellite communication; satellite vehicle power systems; sensors; wireless LAN;
Journal_Title :
Antennas and Propagation Magazine, IEEE
DOI :
10.1109/MAP.2006.277130
