TigerCub: An Accessible, Open-Source PocketQube Platform

• PocketQubes are 5-cm cubical picosatellites inspired by CubeSats. They are less expensive and have a faster development time, ideal for first-time builders. • Many nanosatellites fail due to loss of downlinking abilities after launch. Custom PocketQube communications systems are complex, and there are no COTS options with flight heritage. • We propose TigerCub, a PocketQube platform built around the RockBLOCK 9603, a communications module that uses the Iridium satellite network. This simplifies development and testing. • Pre-built breakout boards, a sheet metal frame, and the use of COTS components increase accessibility for first-time developers. • TigerCub is open-source!