From the Delfi-C3 nano-satellite towards the Delfi-n3Xt nano-satellite

On April 29 , 2008, the first 3-unit CubeSat of the Delft University of Technology, Delfi-C3, was launched on a PSLV-C9 rocket and is operational. The objectives of the Delfi-C3 project were successfully fulfilled. Currently students are working on its successor Delfi-n3Xt. Both satellites are developments of the faculties of Aerospace and Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS). The paper starts with an overview of results and lessons learned from the Delfi-C3 development and the mission with emphasis on sub-system development, satellite design, manufacturing, assembly, integration and test. Subsequently an assessment is presented about differences and improvements from Delfi-C3 towards Delfi-n3Xt in view of the satellite development line. In a comparison common aspects and differences are addressed; both in hardware and project approach: mission goals and objectives, custom structure design, Electrical Power Subsystem with local protection circuits and Maximum Power Point Tracking, combination of UHF/VHF antennae, addition of S-band antenna, a new Command and Data Handling Subsystem, an Attitude Determination and Control Subsystem with sensors and actuators for 3-axis attitude control, satellite testing and adapted operations approach. Finally the payloads of Delfi-n3Xt: ITRX, MPS, SDM, SPLASH, T3μPS and some options are addressed