Effective Model-Based Systems Engineering framework for academic nanosatellite project management and design

Nanosatellites, as a standardized Space research project with fast and cost-effective development possibilities, have enabled universities in a growing number of emerging countries to develop a wide range of space missions in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). This paper aims to contribute to research efforts to improve the success of university nanosatellite missions using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) to facilitate the initial project management and design phases. The proposed model-based approach is the result of experience gained from the MASAT1 project, a Moroccan university nanosatellite, and it is based on an architectural framework that allows the system to be described via a set of views. The management and design process is based on a reference framework based on existing standards such as ESA's European Cooperation for Spatial Standardization (ECSS). The choice fell on the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) for the MBSE implementation with the future goal of developing executable SysML Modeling approaches.