Small Satellite Docking with Power and Data Transfer

Project Lead

Spring 2022 to Present

Engineered a patent-pending, innovative shape for two-stage small satellite docking. Developed a power and data transfer interface for CubeSat docking adapters, utilizing pogo pin connectors as the electrical interface. Successfully demonstrated effective power and data transmission through the docking adapters, advancing In-Space Assembly.

In-Space Assembled Superstructure: RAVEN

Systems Engineer

Spring 2023 to Present

Conceptualized "RAVEN" (Robotic Autonomous Vision and Exploration Node), a Cislunar Observation platform using In-Space Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM). The system incorporates 96 cameras with different specifications, including wide-angle, medium FoV, and telephoto lenses, designed for comprehensive Cislunar Space Traffic monitoring and lunar base surveillance.

STARSS - Spaceborne Telescope for Asteroid Research and Space Surveying

Systems Engineer

Summer 2023 to Present

Deployable deployable Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope for CubeSats features compact 8U packaging with a tensegrity deployment mechanism that extends up to 16 U, dual focal capabilities, and high-resolution imaging potential, enabling advanced space observation from miniaturized satellite platforms.

NASA MUREP Educational Program

NASA Mentor and Scholar

February 2021 to May 2024

Mentored underrepresented students at the SpaceTREx Lab, guiding over 40 students from multiple institutions. Provided research opportunities and industry-specific skills, preparing mentees for space sector careers. Efforts were recognized with the NASA Space Tech Catalyst prize ($25,000) for fostering workforce development in space technology.

Manual Spacecraft Docking Simulator Using Stewart Platform

Project Lead

Fall 2021 to Spring 2024

A study utilizing a 6-DoF Stewart Platform and robotic arm simulated spacecraft docking conditions. Participants controlled the platform via a gaming controller to dock with the simulated approaching craft. Collected physiological data and observed docking success to assess human factors in routine space operations.

Mechanical Gyro Smallsat Test Platform

Project Lead

Summer 2022 to Fall 2023

A 3D-printed Mechanical Gyro Platform was developed for small satellite testing. Featuring hollow channels for wiring, the system supports open or closed-loop control using encoders or an IMU in the payload. The platform was used to validate machine learning algorithms for attitude estimation in CubeSat payloads.

ML for Smallsat Attitude Estimation

Project Lead

Summer 2023 to Present

Neural networks were developed for ranging and pose estimation of small satellites in a calibrated dark room. Utilizing standardized LED lights as keypoints, the project involved synthetic data generation and evaluation of various machine learning algorithms. After hyperparameter tuning, optimized models were implemented on hardware in the SWORD facility. Results demonstrated up to 95% accuracy on synthetic data and 90% on hardware validation.

Satellite Collision Dynamics Analysis During Docking using ADAMS

Project Lead

Spring 2024 to Present

This study employs dynamics software such as MSC Adams to simulate free-space collisions during autonomous spacecraft docking. It analyzes collision dynamics across various docking adapter designs, determining optimal propulsive forces for successful docking. The research evaluates success rates under various initial conditions, advancing our understanding of autonomous space rendezvous procedures.

Lunar Sandbags for Construction of Lunar Habitats

Systems Engineer

Fall 2021 to Summer 2022

Contributed to a NASA M-STAR funded project focusing on In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) for lunar habitat construction. The initiative explores the use of regolith-filled sandbags embedded with electronics, sensors, and wireless capabilities. This approach enables robotic assembly of structures, reducing transported materials while providing environmental monitoring and protection against lunar hazards.

SeCrTS: Semi Cryogenic Thrust Stand

Systems Engineer

March 2019 to August 2019

Led the development of a mobile thrust stand facility for testing Agnikul's Agnilet engine, a 3 kN semi-cryogenic propulsion system utilizing Jet-A and liquid oxygen. This engine serves as the third stage of the Agnibaan rocket. The facility was designed to accommodate the unique requirements of semi-cryogenic propulsion testing in a portable configuration.

Small Agnibaan Rocket Design Book

Author and Editor

January 2019 to March 2019

Served as lead author and editor for the Small AgniBaan Rocket (SAR) Design book, an 800-page comprehensive guide detailing system and subsystem designs for a miniaturized version of Agnikul's Agnibaan rocket. The book covers all aspects of the small-lift launch vehicle.

Systems Engineering Framework Development

Lead Systems Engineer

October 2018 to August 2019

Implemented critical systems engineering frameworks at Agnikul Cosmos, including Requirements Management and Design for Avionics, Version Control, Process Flow, and Documentation. These initiatives standardized engineering processes, enhanced organizational efficiency, and improved project management and technical documentation practices, aligning with industry best practices in space systems engineering.

Astronaut Urine Repurposing Apparatus (AURA)

Systems Engineer

Fall 2016 to Fall 2017

Led a NASA X-Hab Challenge project developing a system to convert astronaut urine into plant nutrients for deep space missions. The innovative design enables waste recycling and supports sustainable plant growth in space habitats, addressing critical life support challenges for long-duration space exploration. The project aligns with NASA's broader efforts to recycle up to 98% of water in space, including urine and sweat, for astronaut use.

VAYU: High Altitude Weather Balloon

Systems Engineer

Spring 2017

Served as Systems Engineer for a high-altitude weather balloon mission, capturing 2K resolution imagery and profiling dust concentration up to 30 km over Michigan. The payload integrated multiple sensors, cameras, and communication systems. Successfully launched and recovered on March 31, 2017, yielding valuable atmospheric data.

Residential Building Design

Lead Designer

January 2019 to January 2020

Developed a comprehensive 3D model, including 2D plans and structural framework, for a government-approved three-story residential building in Chennai, India. The project, completed in 2024, adhered to Tamil Nadu's building regulations and construction standards.