Magnetic Dipole Estimation Setup
Overview
MADES is a cost-effective magnetic characterization platform featuring an adjustable non-metallic frame, 12 magnetic sensors, and dedicated algorithms to estimate dipole position, direction, and magnitude. It supports satellites from 1U to 12U, with customizable configurations available to meet specific needs, and enables magnetic cleanliness testing from individual attitude determination and control system (ADCS) hardware and magnetically sensitive payloads to full systems and satellites, without the need for a magnetic cleanliness facility. MADES has been cross-validated through testing on the E.T.PACK-F satellite, against a conventional dipole estimation setup using a Helmholtz cage and fluxgate sensors. Additional experimental tests with controlled dipole sources demonstrated reliable operation, confirming readiness for use in small-satellite missions.
MADES — specifications
System overview
- Test satellites
- Up to 12U *
- Internal volume
- 400 x 400 x 430 mm *
- System mass
- 0.5 kg
- Sensors
- 12 magnetic sensors on an adjustable non-metallic frame
Estimation performance
- Dipole magnitude error
- 6 %
- Dipole direction error
- 8°
- Dipole position error
- 8 mm
- Test conditions
- Ambient noise < 200 nT, dipole moment > 0.02 A·m²
Sensor specifications
- Measurement range
- ±1100 µT
- Noise
- 15 nT
- Bias
- 100 nT
- Sensitivity level
- 13 nT
* Dimensions and capacity can be customised upon request.
Use Cases
For satellite developers and integrators who need magnetic cleanliness testing of ADCS hardware, magnetically sensitive payloads, or full small satellites (1U to 12U), without access to a dedicated magnetic cleanliness facility.
Interested in MADES?
Download the data sheet, or get in touch with our engineering team to discuss integration for your mission.
Download Data SheetContact our team