CADSat

A CADSat is the preliminary design of a CanSat using a CAD tool.

CanSat is an initiative of the European Space Agency that challenges students from all over Europe to build a mini satellite the size of a soda can.

Thousands of students participate every year in CanSat National and European events, where they launch their CanSat on a rocket that goes up to 1km high. This year, unfortunately social distancing doesn’t allow us all to gather and host such events. However, with this new project, CADSat, you can design your CanSat on the computer without moving from your home!

The CAD in CADsat stands for Computer-aided-design. Your mission is to design a CADSat using a 3D design tool in order to achieve a mission thought up by you. Your CADSat must meet the specifications as defined in the guidelines, and can be as complex or as simple as you like. You can work as a team or individually, but the key to a great design is to have fun!

Who can participate?

Participation is open to individuals, virtual teams of young people aged 12 – 18 years old, and families. An adult must register on the CADSat @home online platform and submit the project for minors.

Submit your design

What are the opening and closing dates of the CADSat ?

Opening: 12/05/2020 Closing: 04/09/2020
What is CADSat?

CADSat @home is an ESA education project part of the initiative Expedition: Home. It is open for students between 12 and 18 years old. The project challenges students to design a mini-satellite in the size of a soda can. Participants will be asked to submit a 3D design made with the design tool of their choice and describe their experiment. CADSat is a ‘spin-off’ project of CanSat.
How do I submit the CADSat design ?

You can submit your design using the online submission platform.
How many designs can I submit?

You may only submit 1 design. Each participant can only be part of one team and can only submit one project.
I am a teacher / mentor, can I have multiple teams ?

Yes. The parent, guardian or mentor can have multiple teams.
Who can participate ?

Participation is open to young people aged 12 to 18 years old You must sign up with a parent, guardian or teacher. You may complete CADSat individually or as a team, and you must be supported by a teacher or mentor. Students enrolled at a postsecondary/tertiary institution are not eligible to apply.
Does my entry need to be in English ?

No, you can submit your proposal in any language. However primary communication about the programme will be in English.
Can I use any modelling tool ?

Yes, you are free to use any modelling tool your wish. Learn here about some free modelling 3D tools.
How can I get access to the modelling tools ?

We have provided a list of free online modelling tools, however you are free to use any design tool you wish.
Will I get an email acknowledgement that my entry has been received ?

Yes, you will receive an e-mail confirming that your entry has been received. You can revise your entry via your account.
Where can I find more information about CanSat ?

General information about the CanSat competition can be found in the supporting material on this webpage or at https://www.esa.int/Education/CanSat.
Where will my design be displayed ?

If your design is approved, it will be displayed on the CADSat online platform.
If I have a problem with my entry, or a question about the competition, whom should I contact?

Please use the CanSat email: cansat@esa.int
Can I withdraw my submission ?

You may work on your project and delete your project anytime before the closing date of the programme via your account. However, once the project has been submitted, it cannot be withdrawn. You can also delete your account so that all your data is deleted from our servers.