Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Dan White

College

College of Engineering (COE)

Discipline(s)

Mechanical Engineering

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-20-2026

Abstract

The BCON-1 project aims to design and prototype the structural framework for a 1P-sized PocketQube satellite as an initial step toward developing a fully independent, flight-ready spacecraft. Building on experience and data from the earlier BCON-2 payload and the first prototype in 2023, BCON-1 focuses on creating a satellite structure and a downlink coordination system to optimize communication with ground stations. The mission seeks to demonstrate efficient data transmission from satellites to receive-only ground stations. This semester our goal is to successfully run an antenna deployment test.

Beyond the technical goals, BCON-1 serves as a hands-on educational tool for students in the College of Engineering, providing experience in spacecraft design, fabrication, and testing under the guidance of Dr. Dan White. The final outcome will include a functional 1P PocketQube prototype and a documented framework for future student-led Qubesat missions, forming the foundation for larger-scale projects such as a 3P-class PocketQube.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Alex is currently pursuing future jobs in the aerospace industry. Ever since he took an aerospace class in high school, it has been my dream to work in the space industry, which is why he interned at Northrop Grumman. When he transferred to this school, he heard that Valpo Space Program needed students to join their program which is how I got involved in this project.

Kristian has always been interested in aviation and aerospace so it was almost a no brainer when he heard about VSP. He started to talk to professor White, and when the professor talked about the project it made him more excited to get his hands on the project.

Ian is interested in the design and testing of rockets. Watching rocket launches was always a thrilling experience for him.

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