A CanSat is a simulation of a real satellite, integrated within the volume and shape of a soft drink can (with a diameter of 66mm and a height of 115mm). The challenge for us is to fit all the major subsystems found in a satellite, such as power, sensors and a communication system, into this minimal volume. The CanSat is then launched to an altitude of a few hundred metres by a captive balloon and its mission begins: to carry out a scientific experiment and achieve a safe landing. Team Cyclone is aiming to, as its primary mission, measure the temperature and pressure of the atmosphere it is passing through for the duration of its descent. This primary mission is the same for all CanSats in the competition; however, where Team Cyclone will be looking to impress the judges is with its secondary mission, which defines and differentiates each entrant. For the secondary mission we will be aiming to produce a quadcopter capable of surveying an extraterrestrial planet, using a live-feed camera, thus being able to analyse the topography and investigating the presence of any flora and fauna. The drone should be capable of investigating the air through which it is passing: finding the dew point of the air, useful for finding the quality (combining with the temperature) of the area for agriculture, thus human inhabitability. Finally, the drone should be able to navigate autonomously, in order that it can investigate specific sites.
