Systems Engineering of the AlbaSat mission: from requirements to validation and legal considerations

Systems engineering is a crucial interdisciplinary approach for the development of complex systems, particularly in space missions. This thesis applies systems engineering methodologies to AlbaSat, a student-led CubeSat mission developed by Alba CubeSat UniPD. The project has been part of the first edition of “Fly Your Satellite! Design Booster” programme, promoted by the European Space Agency (ESA), which supports university teams in improving their satellite design. This work explores key aspects of systems engineering within AlbaSat, focusing on requirements engineering, verification processes, and legal considerations. First, it details the mission objectives, which include in-situ measurements of sub-millimeter space debris, micro-vibration analysis on the satellite, laser ranging for orbit determination, and the study of quantum communication technologies on nanosatellites. Subsequently, the thesis examines the process of defining and managing technical requirements through the Technical Specification - Verification Control Document (TS-VCD) and the Fly Your Satellite! Design Specification - Verification Control Document (FDS-VCD), ensuring compliance with ESA guidelines. The verification process is analyzed, outlining standardized methods such as testing, analysis, inspection, and review of design to demonstrate compliance with system requirements. Given the project's constraint of a limited budget, most verifications have so far been conducted through analysis and documentation review. Additionally, legal and regulatory aspects are examined, addressing compliance with international treaties, national laws, and administrative procedures necessary for mission authorization. This thesis provides an overview of frequency coordination, space object registration, and sustainability regulations. Through the application of systems engineering principles, this work highlights the challenges encountered and the solutions adopted in a student-led space project, contributing to knowledge continuity within Alba CubeSat UniPD.