SPEX Mini Cubesat Keychain

thingiverse

I'm excited to share this miniature model of my cubesat with you. It's part of my SPace EXploration research group at RIT, and I've made all the design files available for editing fun! The model can be assembled mechanically or electronically. Here's a video showing it in action: https://youtu.be/k6n3DKMDLpE Now, let's get started with the instructions: Step 1: Trim both leads of each LED to about 4mm. Step 2: Trim one side of each resistor to match the length of the led's leads. Step 3: Solder the short end of a resistor to the cathode (flat part) of the led. Repeat for all LEDs. Step 4: Attach a short piece (50 - 60mm) of insulated wire to the other end of each LED. Step 5: Place each LED into the holes from the outside of the cube. Step 6: Bend the cathode lead (the one with the resistor) of each led flat against the plastic. Step 7: Rotate the LEDs so their resistors are well positioned and not touching others. Step 8: Solder the long ends of each resistor to each other and attach another short wire. Be careful not to touch the soldering iron tip to the plastic. Step 9: Carefully pull/push the LED assembly out of its hole, using a pencil if needed. Step 10: Place the LED assembly back into the holes from the inside. Step 11: Align the resistors and their leads so they don't touch. Use glue if necessary. Step 12: Solder a piece of leftover lead to the positive terminal of the battery holder (the lead next to the notch in the plastic). Bend the lead flat against the plastic, being careful not to break it. Step 13: Lightly glue the battery holder to the back cover, ensuring it's secure. Step 14: Put the switch into the hole and solder the wire from the battery to the middle lead of the switch. Step 15: Solder five pieces of wire coming from LEDs together and to one of the leads on the switch for a flashlight (Option 1). Trim the wires short and solder them in place. Be aware of any remaining ground wires, and trim those as well.