Development of modular Electrical Power System for KuupKulgur prototype

Abstract

CubeRovers are a new class of lightweight, modular robotic platforms designed to lower the barrier to lunar surface exploration. To support such systems, a reliable and modular Electrical Power System (EPS) is essential. This thesis focuses on the development of an EPS for KuupKulgur, a CubeRover prototype created at Tartu Observatory. An advanced EPS-v2 was designed to meet a comprehensive set of power and communication requirements. While EPS-v2 serves as the foundation for future implementations, a simplified EPS-v1.1 was subsequently developed based on lessons learned during the design of v2. This version was tailored to enhance the reliability and performance of the current KuupKulgur rover prototype. The work includes the design, prototyping, and testing of both EPS boards. All system requirements were fulfilled, with the exception of hot-swappability, which was deprioritized due to mechanical and reliability constraints. Although space qualification was beyond the scope of this thesis, the system architecture allows for potential future thermal-vacuum and radiation testing. The results presented here lay the groundwork for future EPS revisions compatible with CubeRover standards and operational lunar missions.