RADSAT-SK (IDRSat)

Study how materials degrade in space by studying material changes in colour, texture, brittleness, and electrical conductivity.

RADSAT-SK has three technical objectives, the first being the validation and testing of a new type of radiation dosimeter being developed by faculty at the College of Engineering. This new type of sensor is much smaller and cheaper than current space-grade dosimeters.

Along with the dosimeter we will also be testing the use of high-concentration melanin as a radiation shield in space. This research is also being conducted at the U of S by faculty at the college of pharmacology. Lastly, RADSAT-SK will have an earth-imaging camera on-board in the hope that our team can capture some images of Saskatchewan from space that we can share with the province.

Study how materials degrade in space by looking at how useful construction materials are affected by extreme temperatures, radiation, and space debris in low Earth orbit, and by studying material changes in colour, texture, brittleness, and electrical conductivity. The results of the study could lead to more cost-efficient solutions for the space sector.