Project Implementation and Lessons Learned from the RainCube Mission

RainCube (Radar in a CubeSat) is a technology demonstration mission to enable Ka-band precipitation radar technologies on a low-cost, quick-turnaround platform. The 6U CubeSat is currently in orbit and features a radar payload built by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and a spacecraft bus and operations provided by Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems. Following the deployment of the half-meter parabolic antenna, the radar first observed precipitation over Mexico a month later. The mission has met its technology demonstration requirements and continues to collect precipitation data. This paper discusses the project engineering processes through formulation, implementation, and flight operations and concludes with lessons learned and future concepts.