MEMS Accelerometer for Satellites

Lead Investigator: Todd J. Kaiser, Montana State University

NASA is currently making efforts to reduce the size of satellites and spacecraft. These smaller vehicles need systems and sensors that are also reduced in size and mass.  Microelectro-mechanical systems (MEMS) are an ideal solution to enable lower costs, smaller and lighter sensors and systems. One system requirement for these smaller vehicles that has yet to find a solution is the need for an accelerometer for stabilization of orbits. The orbits of satellites are perturbed by atmospheric drag, solar radiation pressure and other effects. High performance accelerometers are sensitive to the orbit decay and can signal micro-thrusters to maintain the orbit. A MEMS accelerometer suitable for drag-free satellite control will be developed under this proposal. Various geometries will be explored and a finalized design suitable for microfabrication will be established. The design will be based on a free proof mass suspended in an electrical cage that uses electrostatic transducers to maintain the proof mass position in the cage. This technique has been demonstrated by conventional manufactured devices for large satellites, but has yet been transferred to microfabrication and microsystems.

 

Mail:	Todd Kaiser	E-mail:	tjkaiser@ece.montana.edu
	Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering	Phone:	(406) 994-7276
	Montana State University	FAX:	(406) 994-5958
	Bozeman, MT 59717	Website:	None

Montana Space Grant Home