The Cosmic X-Ray Background NanoSat (CXBN): Measuring the Cosmic X-Ray Background using the CubeSat Form Factor

The CXBN mission goal is to significantly increase the Cosmic X-Ray Background measurement precision in the 30-50 keV range. The mission addresses a fundamental science question central to our understanding of the structure, origin, and evolution of the universe by potentially lending insight into the high energy background radiation. The CXBN spacecraft will map the Extragalactic Diffuse X-Ray Background (DXRB) with a new Cadmium Zinc Telluride (CZT) detector. The DXRB measurement will pose a powerful tool for understanding the early universe and a window to the far-away universe. The science objectives were condensed into a novel spacecraft concept characterized by a sun-pointing, spinning spacecraft in LEO with moderate inclination. Launch trajectories allow four nominal passes per day over the primary Earth station at Morehead State University (Morehead, KY). The science mission requirements fortunately allow adoption of the economical CubeSat form factor. The major subsystems comprising the satellite are new — having been developed by the team. Innovative systems include power distribution, command and data handling, and attitude determination and control systems.