Control unit

Instrument Control Units

The Instrument Control Unit (ICU) represents the core electronic architecture behind spaceborne scientific instruments. It enables the controlled operation of experiments in complex and mission-critical space environments.

In space research, precision, reliability, and integration capability are essential. The ICU acts as the central interface between the instrument and the spacecraft, ensuring that commands, power management, data acquisition, and system monitoring are executed safely and efficiently throughout the mission lifecycle.

Designed for mission-critical applications, Kayser’s Instrument Control Unit integrates power distribution, command handling, data acquisition, and communication interfaces within a robust and space-qualified architecture.

Each ICU is engineered to meet the specific requirements of the payload and the hosting platform, ensuring compliance with environmental, safety, and interface standards. Its modular and flexible design allows adaptation to different mission profiles, from automated experiments to crew-assisted operations.

Optimized for reliability and long-term performance, the ICU guarantees stable operation across all mission phases—from pre-launch integration to in-orbit execution—supporting both scientific accuracy and operational safety.

Thruster Control Units

TPPRE (Thruster Pointing and Pressure Regulation Electronics) is part of the main satellite electrical propulsion sub-system. It is located between the propulsion controls generator (On Board Computer) and propulsion actuators (Xenon Pressure Regulator Unit and Thruster Pointing Mechanisms).

Main functions are to perform the closed-loop control of Xenon valve actuation, implementing an automatic algorithm based on pressure sensor readings and actuate thruster positioning for satellite attitude and orbit control.

The two main functions are performed by single modules in hot and cold redundancy whose configuration can be adapted to several mission typology.

Each module integrates a power converter board, for powering internal electronics and supply power to valves and motors, and a control board to dispatch commands to the actuator units, acquire telemetry readings and communicate with OBC.

Considering the deep space and sample return applications, TPPRE reliability has been analysed with double failure tolerant approach to cope with period of ground segment non visibility.