A CanSat is a small satellite in shape of a commercial beverage can that performs several measuring tasks. In this course, a CanSat is designed, built and tested in the field during a rocket launch. Therefore, all basics of topics related to the exciting area of space technologies is imparted and practical skills for the development of a CanSat are trained. The theoretical units are supplemented by practical exercises. Parts of the CanSat are developed in intensely supervised small groups. During an excursion to a site in Berlin where space related companies and institutions are located, the participants shall gain insight into facilities used for the development of satellites. 

Goals

After completion of this course the participant shall be able to:

• Apply basic skills in mechanical design, electrical design and microcontroller programming in a hands-on project
• Describe the main elements of astronautics
• Describe the subsystems of a satellite
• Reason and solve problems analytically
• Manage working in an interdisciplinary team
• Apply defined steps in managing a group project
• Justify design choices from a technical and programmatic point of view
• Build and operate a system which behaves similar to a satellite
• Prepare for an experimental campaign
• Present project results properly in a review

Course Structure:

The course starts with introductory lectures about the most important topics related to space technologies. In parallel, a practical training will be given to develop specific engineering skills in mechanics, electronics and programming that are necessary to conduct the hands-on project. During project work units, parts of a CanSat will be designed with supervision in smaller groups. During a launch campaign, the CanSat will be tested under real conditions. 

Syllabus:

A detailed syllabus with information on the schedule will be made available to registered participants.
You may find the syllabus useful when discussing with your home university whether the ECTS credits attainable for this course are accepted by them. Please note this is a full-time, intensive course and participants will be expected to attend lectures (18 hours of class per week) and complete independent study Monday through Friday. Additional study may also be required on weekends. The activities of the cultural program are also shown in the syllabus.

This course is designed for students, working professionals and any individuals with a general understanding of engineering who want to gain insight into the exciting topic of space technologies. With the practical approach applied, students experience working on a challenging project in an interdisciplinary team. This prepares them for a systems engineering career with a leading position in the engineering industry. With the basic knowledge in space technologies that is imparted in this course, students have a good starting point to prepare themselves for a continuing education in space engineering. It is recommended that students use their own laptops for the hands-on project.

Participants of the TU Berlin Summer & Winter University must meet the following requirements: (i) B2 level English, or equivalent and (ii) at least one year of university experience.

Participants should have a general understanding of engineering.

Dipl.Ing. Cem Avsar studied Aerospace Engineering at the TU Berlin and has taught numerous space technology related courses, e.g. Satellite Technology, Aerospace Electronics, Aerospace System Design, Space Robotics. Today, he is managing director of the Berlin-based space company beSpace.

After his graduation, he joined the staff of scientific researchers at the TU Berlin, Chair of Space Technology. He worked on modular satellite architectures and CubeSats. As Prof. Dr.-Ing. Klaus Brieß‘teaching assistant, he was strongly involved in shaping the space technology curriculum. He also managed research projects, for instance a student-built rover. His projects enclosure the direct involvement of students in hands-on lecture courses.

Course fees for CanSat Satellite Design are as follows:

Student: 2300 Euros

Working professional/Non-student: 2760 Euros

The early bird discount is available for all participants until March 1^st 2022.

Please note that students will be required to upload proof of their student status (student card/ enrollment information) during the registration process.