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History
History
The CubeSat Technology Exploration Program (CubeSTEP) was established in 2020 as a collaborative research effort between Cal Poly Pomona and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Originally launched through the JPL University Crowdsourcing Initiative (JUCI), the project began with the goal of developing a 3U CubeSat testbed to advance low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) space technologies.
Over time, CubeSTEP has grown into a multidisciplinary student-led program focused on designing, building, and testing innovative thermal management systems for small satellites. Supported by NASA’s M-STAR grant, the project continues to bridge academia and industry—training the next generation of engineers through real-world spacecraft design and collaboration with JPL mentors.
Our Teams
Our Teams
CubeSTEP is made up of dedicated student-led subteams that work together to design, build, and test the CubeSat from the ground up. Each group focuses on a key area of the mission—from systems engineering and hardware design to payload testing, flight software, and mission operations. Together, they ensure that every component integrates seamlessly to achieve successful launch and on-orbit performance.
Systems Engineering
Systems Engineering
Owns requirements: making sure they are updated, consistent, and traceable. Coordinates across subteams, manages dependencies, and validates that subsystem work aligns with mission objectives.
Flight Hardware
Flight Hardware
Designs, builds, and tests the CubeSat’s physical structure and payload integration. Works closely with advisors and industry experts on new payloads, materials, and integration paths.
Payload & Testing
Payload & Testing
Manages scientific/technical payloads and testing campaigns. Handles PCB development, component procurement, and integration with both hardware and software. Responsible for ensuring payload performance and reliability.
Flight Software (FSW)
Flight Software (FSW)
Develops software using F Prime (and custom components). Ensures command, control, and data handling work across subsystems. Coordinates with payload, hardware, and mission ops to meet data needs.
Mission Design & Operations (MDO)
Mission Design & Operations (MDO)
Oversees ground station setup and mission operations planning. Defines expected data flows, coordinates uplink/downlink with FSW, and manages the new ground station room and rooftop satellite installation (Building 9).
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