Meet the Winners: SEDS-UChicago
Established in 2020, SEDS-UChicago has evolved from launching small rockets, to hosting SpaceVision in 2022, to developing a thriving rocketry and CubeSat program. With the University of Chicago not having an accredited engineering department, SEDS-UChicago provides essential hands-on engineering experience for diverse students. In fact, backgrounds stem from astrophysics, molecular engineering, physics, computer science, quantum physics, optics, among many others.
The chapter is working on two major projects: a rocket for the 2025 SpacePort America Cup and PULSE-A, a 2U CubeSat. PULSE-A, accepted by NASA’s 15th CubeSat Launch Initiative, is set for delivery in Q3 2025. Through projects like PULSE-A, students gain skills in CAD, PCB design, systems engineering, and other engineering software. As the space club on campus, SEDS-UChicago has partnered with other STEAM groups for competitions like the University Rover Competition.
Their past triumph, hosting SpaceVision 2022, brought together space lovers from all walks of life, sparking important conversations about inclusivity and opportunities in the field of space exploration. Since then, SEDS-UChicago has grown their footprint within their community and has continued to spread awareness of opportunities in space.
PULSE-A's Journey to Transforming Space Communication
PULSE-A, the flagship project of SEDS-UChicago, is a student-led initiative aimed at demonstrating 10 Mbps polarization-keyed, space-to-ground laser communications with a 2U CubeSat. This mission seeks to overcome the limitations of traditional radio frequency communications by utilizing free-space optical technology, offering improved efficiency, compactness, and security.
The project focuses on developing key systems like downlink pointing, accuracy and tracking, uplink tracking, and a polarization-based optical ground station. These advancements are crucial for the success of PULSE-A and pave the way for a future Quantum Key Distribution mission, PULSE-Q. Supported by significant contributions from donors and university departments, PULSE-A has also gained NASA’s backing through the CubeSat Launch Initiative.
PULSE-A is making substantial progress, with teams actively engaged in setting up the optical payload, conducting avionics testing, and programming FPGAs. The optical ground station, essential for the mission, will be situated at Yerkes Observatory due to safety regulations. With focused efforts and a collaborative approach, the project is on course to achieve its ambitious objectives, promising significant advancements in small form-factor space communication technology.
A Mission Beyond the Stars
SEDS-UChicago is charting a course for both the cosmos and community with their PULSE-A mission. In Chicago, they’re making a difference by engaging with local schools on the south side, where resources for STEM education are often limited. This project is not just advancing space communication but also reaching local and national communities with a spirit of inspiration and inclusion.
At the university, the chapter has been busy with its impressive 11-inch telescope, which is now a beloved part of astronomy classes. Students are thrilled to gaze at the stars and learn about the universe, all thanks to this marvelous instrument. In partnership with the amateur radio club, SEDS-UChicago is helping students explore radio and astronomy. Over the next months, they will host monthly events to teach these skills to local high schoolers.
With their ambitious projects like PULSE-A and high-powered rocketry, SEDS-UChicago is proving that a little bit of curiosity and a lot of hard work can make a big difference. Their story is one of innovation, excitement, and a commitment to inspiring the next generation of space explorers.
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