Where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going.
Versatile Educational Controls Testbed for Optical Response — the next step after SCALAR, carrying configurable algorithms for transient observation.
Our first satellite reaches orbit: a 1U CubeSat demonstrating attitude control with magnetic torque rods, bus endurance, and ground-side mission operations.
University Nanosatellite Program proposal draft finished, closing out the VECTOR concept phase.
Second ground station assembled, tested, and ready to command SCALAR from the Crow Hall rooftop.
Vibration and thermal testing to qualify the flight unit for launch.
Project kickoff, systems engineering and integration leads named, sensor and lens trade study opens.
The integrated 3D prototype is done and the full engineering model enters machining and assembly, with mass properties and the test plan settled.
Antenna simulation, structures, and control software in progress across seven modules, aimed at rapid data downlink. Rooftop site selected.
Range safety requirements accepted, with ground operations and transport planning complete.
A fast-slewing optical telescope flying on ADAPT, a NASA near-space balloon over Antarctica, imaging gamma-ray burst afterglows for the multi-messenger collaboration.
Initial design package accepted, moving SCALAR from concept into flight development.
The team closed out GS-1 and restarted as GS-2 with a written requirements sheet, carrying forward its hardware, software, and lessons learned.
Preliminary design reviews for the first ground station passed.
Engineering reviews, budgets, and responsible-engineering standards adopted.
First mission: small balloon launched from Tisch Park.
WashU Satellite founded with 11 initial members.