QuantSat-PT: an attitude determination and control system architecture for QKD

Abstract

This article presents the QuantSaT-PT project, an effort to create the first Portuguese nanosatellite for space to ground quantum communication. Focused on the Attitude Determination and Control System, it describes the different elements that allow for the attainment of diverse accuracy levels required for separate mission stages. Given the harsh pointing precision necessary for establishing a quantum downlink, the implementation of this module presents a major challenge in the Cubesat field. Furthermore, the introduced architecture aims to reduce system cost by replacing the state-of-the-art star tracker with ground beacon detection.