Space is entering a new age. Private industries and innovators are overcoming the challenges that shape how we interact with our solar system. The process of overcoming these challenges will launch those involved to the forefront of space technology.
Our goal at the Queen’s Space Engineering Team (QSET) is to provide an environment where students can develop industry transferrable skills through hands on experience. From mechanical and electrical, to chemical and financial, the competitions that QSET participates in offer a wide range of challenges. Operating as an independently run team offers members the flexibility and freedom required to successfully plan, research, and implement solutions to open ended design problems.
QSET is defined by the competitions that it undertakes. In 2010 QSET placed second at the International CanSat Competition held in Texas. This competition is organized by the American Astronautical Society (AAS), the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and sponsored by NASA. This competition involves designing a rocket payload that meets the constraints designated by the CanSat guidelines. In 2011, QSET re-entered the CanSat Competition and joined the Canadian Satellite Design Challenge (CSDC).
The CSDC is organized by GeoCentrix Technologies Ltd. and is open exclusively to Canadian Universities. This two year competition involves designing and building a functional CubeSat satellite intended to perform research for one year in low earth orbit while following the CSDC guidelines. Successful competitors will be given the opportunity to launch their CubeSat to carry out its mission.
Both of these competitions require extensive planning, dedicated teamwork, creativity, and resourcefulness for success. The team is responsible for all aspects of both design competitions and is aided along the by industry contacts and mentors from both public (NASA) and private companies. You can assist the ambitious students of QSET through monetary contribution or becoming a mentor to the team by providing your skills and experiences. Together we can provide an enriched hands on environment for Queen’s students and bring humanity one step closer to the stars.