Gemini-center for small satellites

Gemini-center for small satellites

This centers is a collaboration forum between research groups at University of Oslo (UiO), SINTEF and NTNU. Specifically, SINTEF Digital, SINTEF Ocean, the Department of Electronic Systems, the Department of Engineering Cybernetics as well as the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at NTNU in addition to the Department of Technology systems and UiO.

Our goal

To be able to fullfill the ambition of the Norwegian space industry to take an increased share of the global space market, we also need to strengthen the research and academic work within the selected marked segments. Topics as development, production, testing, and launching of small satellites and payloads are important for the partners and we actively seek collaboration externally and internally.

Small satellites are platforms for small sensors and communication systems that can be used for Earth observation and space research in a much cheaper way than previous generations of satellites. These satelliteas are usually placed in a low Earth orbit (LEO), usually just over 500 km above the Earth. Typical usecases are gathering of data that can provide knowledge about climate change or land and ocean to, for example, aid agriculture and aquaculture.

Activities

In 2023 and 2024 we hosted the Norwegian small satellite forum. This is an event gathering around 100 participants from Norwegian industry and academia.

We hold regular work-group contact meetings as well as digital and physical events to promote collaboration and dissiminiation of space-related and small satellite related research and education.

About the partners

UiO

The University of Oslo (UiO) hosts a Centre for Research-Based Innovation (SFI) called CENSSS - Centre for Space Sensors and Systems. CENSSS operates the RIMFAX ground-penetrating radar on Mars. (Web CENSSS, web ITS)

SINTEF

Space research and the future utilization of small satellites is a strategic area of focus for SINTEF, which has long experience and expertise in applied research within a range of disciplines that are relevant for the future utilization of small satellites, including smart sensors, robotics, communication, and navigation. (Web SINTEF Digital, web SINTEF Ocean)

NTNU

Over several years, NTNU has developed a focus on small satellites as part of a larger surveillance/sensor system. In January 2022, the first satellite, HYPSO-1, was launched, and is delivering hyperspectral data from the onboard camera. NTNU also has significant activity in the development and operation of autonomous vehicles for exploring seas and skies, in addition to research and teaching activities within communication and various types of sensor systems.
 

Press release at inaguration (in Norwegian)

https://www.sintef.no/siste-nytt/2022/starter-nytt-gemini-senter-for-smasatellitter/