← Back to Projects

CubeSat Selfie Camera Boom

Space Mechanisms

A deployable boom mechanism designed to extend a camera away from the CubeSat body, allowing it to capture "selfies" of the satellite in orbit for visual inspection and mission outreach.

Mechanism Design

The system uses a stored strain energy deployment method. The boom, made of a bistable composite or flexible polymer, is rolled up compactly against the side of the CubeSat. Upon release, it naturally unfurls to its extended state.

Fully extended boom — Isometric view of the fully extended camera boom.

Stowed Configuration — The boom deploying from the CubeSat chassis.

The tip of the boom houses a small camera module connected via a flex PCB that runs along the length of the boom. This eliminates the need for complex wire harnesses that could snag during deployment.

Prototype Testing — Prototype deployment test in a 1U form factor.

Deployment Sequence

High-speed capture of the deployment sequence, showing the boom unrolling from its stowed state to full extension.

Deployment Sequence

Click play to see the frame-by-frame deployment.