OMLESCA

Who are we?

Our group consists of six students from SJSU pursuing Bachelor's degrees in Aerospace Engineering, working on our senior design project. This project allows us to work directly with Benchmark Space Systems to design the fuel system for one of their small satellites that uses a “green” alternative fuel. This project will allow the students to learn leadership roles, design, propulsion, and structure disciplines to better prepare for the space industry. The goal of this project is to improve traditional methods of fuel delivery with the adaptation for use with the “green” fuel and reduction of overall size to reduce the overall launch cost. By doing this, we are confident that space travel will continue to evolve towards cleaner solutions of propulsion systems for satellites.

With the development of this fuel system, we would like to have it contribute to the overall goal of creating a fully functional satellite production lab at SJSU. We hope to have a multi-subsystem project inside this lab for students to be able to get hands-on experience with satellite design, assembly, and testing with all of today’s industry standards. Our first-year fuel system will help lay down the foundation that will allow future students to improve its design and work towards a flight-ready satellite. In addition to creating a platform for educational hands-on experience with satellites, our project also aligns with SJSU’s policy of sustainability to better the environment by using fuel systems with “green” propellants that have zero emissions.

Why are we raising the money?

In order to bring our project to life, we will need to raise money for different aspects of the project. First, there needs to be funding for the parts and materials that will be used for the physical build of the project. This includes, but not limited to, different metals that have specific qualities, O-Rings, screws, metal tubing, and electronics. Some parts will need to be manufactured, this is where the majority of the funding will go. We also plan to fly to Benchmarks Vermont facility to conduct proof testing on the tank design to ensure its safety and reliability. Once a proof test is conducted a second-generation tank will be manufactured so we can conduct a fluid test and eventually integrate with Benchmark Space Systems 1N Thruster and conduct a static fire test.

How can you help?

We can use all the help we can get. With your donation, we will be able to complete our mission and help lay the foundation for the next generation of SJSU engineers. We ask that you share this page with anyone you know to give us more exposure and achieve our goal. As a note, the university is an official 501(c)(3) organization and all gifts are charitable and tax deductible. You will receive an official gift receipt for your contribution to this campaign. Thank you!