N e b u l a X p l o r e r
Mission
NEBULA-Xplorer is a student-led small satellite project in the Netherlands focused on astrophysics and education. It aims to provide the Dutch scientific community with a dedicated soft X-ray observatory for studying binary systems, while giving students from MBO, HBO, and universities hands-on experience in designing and building a space mission with support from SRON and industry partners.
Science case
NEBULA-Xplorer will perform continuous soft X-ray observations of binary systems to study their evolution over time. Its precise timing capabilities will help investigate phenomena like quasi-periodic oscillations and time lags, and uniquely enable the detection of rapid events such as the formation of relativistic jets.
Our students
Sponsors
The students will be supported by SRON in designing, building and testing the camera, electronics and housing. They will also receive coaching from their educational institute and the industrial partners within the project. We develop NEBULA – Xplorer in close cooperation with the Dutch space industry, which provides the technical facilities to produce and test the various components.
High Energy Optics
Cosine will be sponsoring the High Energy Optics of the satellite.
Power Systems
Spherical will be sponsoring the Power Systems of the satellite.
Computer Systems and Testing
NLR will be sponsoring the Computer Systems and Testing of the satellite.
Propulion system
Dawn Areospace will be sponsoring the Propulion system of the satellite.
Internships
For students from the Netherlands, there are assignments within NEBULA for the coming year:
- Development of a structural-thermal model of the camera
(HBO Mechanics / Aerospace Engineering) - Development of camera readout electronics
(HBO Electronics) - Development of camera signal processing
(HBO Electronics) - Research into alternative launch platforms
(Aerospace Engineering University) - Research into mechanical, optical, and electronic test systems
(University / HBO Aerospace Engineering) - Research into materials and processes
(University Materials Science)
Are you a Dutch student and you want to contribute to the Nebula Xplorer? Sign Up!