Open-Source Tools for CubeSat Development: Software, Simulators, and Design Resources

Open-Source is Powering the Next Generation of CubeSat Missions

University and student CubeSat programs often start with limited budgets, volunteer labor, and a strong desire to learn. Open-source software has become a major force in making satellite design, simulation, command, and operations more accessible. Instead of paying for proprietary toolchains, student teams can launch missions using proven, community-built tools.

At Blackwing Space, we believe that open access accelerates innovation. Our onboard computer architecture is based on the open-source PyCubed ecosystem, enabling students and commercial teams to build on familiar tools while reducing risk and shortening development timelines. We also support open standards across flight software, command protocols, and interface modules to keep teams flexible and future proof.

Flight Software and Onboard Computing Tools

• PyCubed: Hardware and software ecosystem widely used in academic nanosatellite programs. Blackwing Space uses a PyCubed-based OBC to maintain compatibility and accelerate development.
• cFS from NASA: Modular flight software architecture designed for scalable missions.
• F Prime (F Prime by JPL): Component driven architecture tested on operational deep space missions.
• OpenSatKit: Flight and ground system bundle designed for student programs.

Mission Design and Simulation

• GMAT: NASA supported astrodynamics and mission analysis tool.
• STK Free Academic License: Professional mission visualization for students.
• Orekit: Open-source orbital mechanics library in Java.
• Community power and thermal budgeting tools tailored for CubeSat missions.

Blackwing Space provides platform performance data including power curves, thermal limits, and link budgets to support mission simulation and planning.

Radio Communications and Ground Segment Tools

• GNU Radio: SDR framework for modulation, demodulation, and decoding.
• TinyGS: Crowdsourced global ground network for UHF downlink. Supported directly by Blackwing Space UHF radios.
• SatNOGS: Fully open ground station network with tracking integration.
• Gpredict: Satellite tracking and pass prediction tool.

Blackwing Space also offers Ground Station as a Service so student teams can operate missions without building infrastructure on day one.

Electronics and Mechanical Design

• KiCad: Industry standard open-source PCB design suite.
• FreeCAD: Mechanical CAD for CubeSat panels, brackets, and structures.
• CubeSat mechanical standard documents: Public access specification maintained and shared by the community.

Blackwing Space supports modular payload integration with openly documented interfaces that eliminate vendor lock-in.

Why Open Standards Matter

• Students gain skills that translate directly into professional missions
• Hardware and code can evolve as missions progress
• Teams can collaborate across universities and international partners
• Long-term reliability does not depend on a single supplier

Blackwing Space is committed to open documentation, open development paths, and PyCubed compatibility so student missions can grow into commercial programs with no redesign required.

Build With Confidence

Open-source tools are driving CubeSat innovation from classrooms to orbit. If your team wants an American-made nanosatellite platform designed around open standards, Blackwing Space delivers proven hardware, mission support, communication services, and guidance from concept through launch.