Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google


U Toronto Students Design Small Satellite with MathWorks Software

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 07/01/10

A laboratory at the University of Toronto has designed and simulated nanosatellite control systems using software from MathWorks. The project to develop the high-performance attitude control systems engaged graduate students working alongside engineers from the Space Flight Laboratory at the university's Institute for Aerospace Studies.

The students used MathWorks' MATLAB, a programming language and development environment, and Simulink, an application for simulation and model-based design. The first stage of their research involved developing a preliminary design of a satellite system. Then they worked with lab engineers to model and test precision attitude control systems using their design.

"Using MathWorks tools on [the space flight] projects equips our students with invaluable, practical space systems engineering experience," said Robert Zee, director of the lab. "MATLAB and Simulink provided the opportunity for graduate students to work side by side with engineers and gain practical experience on a system that will actually fly in space."

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • abstract glowing cube outlines

    Microsoft Positions Windows as an Operating Environment for AI Agents

    The recent Microsoft Build 2026 developer conference highlighted a significant shift in the company's Windows strategy. Rather than presenting artificial intelligence as a collection of standalone features, Microsoft is increasingly positioning Windows as a platform for AI agents.

  • Silhouettes of human faces in cyberspace

    Defending Against Data Breaches in the Age of Deepfakes

    As social-engineering attacks surpass ransomware as the top cyber risk, institutions must reevaluate their cybersecurity practices.

  • SXSW EDU

    SXSW EDU 2026: Discover How to Incorporate Technology with Impact

    With the proliferation of AI and advanced technology, education leaders have an opportunity to find and implement the right solutions to make a difference for learners. This March 9-12, SXSW EDU 2026 is your chance to discover innovative edtech, connect with trailblazing peers, and find strategies that make an impact.

  • abstract cybersecurity data protection

    Rubrik Intros Google Workspace Data Protection

    Rubrik has announced the launch of Rubrik Data Protection for Google Workspace, a product the company said is designed to help enterprise customers protect data and restore operations across Google Workspace environments.