Function of Component

Magnetorquers (also called magnetic torquers or torque rods) are actuators that create magnetic dipoles to interface with an ambient magnetic field (usually Earth’s [1]. This interaction produces a torque due to counter forces that can be used to rotate the spacecraft. As it is an actuator, it is found in the actuator section of the ADCS Architecture. For more information, refer to Magnetorquer .

Key Parameters

Explain all the parameters used in making a selection

• Magnetic Moment
  • The magnetorquer’s magnetic moment is its ability to produce a magnetic field that can interact with the Earth’s magnetic field to produce a torque.
  • Good reaction wheel torque performance may be in the range of 0.1 to 2 Am^2.
• Price
  • Magnetorquers are typically some of the most expensive components in a CubeSat.
  • A good magnetorquer price may simply be as cost-effective as possible.
• Size
  • Size in this context refers to the overall volume of the device as well as each individual major axis dimension.
  • Ideally, the device should be as compact as possible, less than 100 mm for its length and between 10 - 20 mm in diameter
• Weight
  • Weight in this context refers to the overall weight of the device.
  • Since the entire spacecraft for the 2023 cycle needs to be within 4kg, the device should not take up a significant portion of that weight.
• Input Voltage
  • Input voltage in this context refers to the amount of supplied voltage that the device requires.
  • For the 2023 cycle spacecraft, the input voltage should be between 1 and 5 V, depending on its current draw.
• Input Power
  • Input power in this context refers to the amount of supplied power that the device requires.
  • For the 2023 cycle spacecraft, the input power must be less than 5W.

Selection Criteria

• Magnetic Moment
  • More than 1.02 Am^2
• Price
  • As low as possible
• Size
  • Length less than 100 mm
  • Diameter (if applicable) less than 25 mm
• Weight
  • Less than 100 g
• Input Voltage
  • Between 1 and 5 V
• Input Power
  • Less than 5 W

Final Selection

The following part was selected: NCTR-M012 from New Space Systems (see sources for datasheet)

• Magnetic Moment: 1.19 Am^2