Key highlights

The Tensor Tech TensorADCS-20m is an integrated ADCS built around two variable-speed, single-gimbal Control Moment Gyroscope (CMG) suitable for 6~12U CubeSats. It delivers comparable performances compared to ADCSs designed for similar sizes of satellites but offers lighter weight, more compact volume, and less power consumption. This configuration offers superior pointing accuracy and higher slew rates compared to the TensorADCS-10m.

Users can directly input through the onboard computer (OBC) attitude quaternion as the reference command or set the system to automated modes such as de-tumbling, sun-tracking, LVLH, and target tracking modes.

Attitude determination and control algorithms embedded in the ADCS computer take care of all the commands to the ADCS components. This enables the user’s OBC to focus on the mission operations instead of calculating the complex system dynamics of the spacecraft.

Also, autonomous modes can allow the satellite to track terrestrial objects or the sun simply by setting the states of the ADCS.

The TensorADCS-20m includes two TensorCMG-10m, five standard TensorFSS-15 fine sun sensors, one TensorFSS-15M (a fine sun sensor with a triaxial magnetometer), two TensorMTQ-200m magnetorquers, one air coil and one control board with integrated gyros.

Technical Specifications:

Mass: <740 g
Dimension: 2*Tuna cans & 0.4U or 1U (Integrated ADCS Box version)
Pointing Knowledge: 0.3 deg (standard config.) 2’’ or 3’’ (with optional star tracker config.)
Control Accuracy: 0.1 deg
Momentum: 20.8 mNms on x,y,z-axis
Slew rate
- 6U Nanosatellite: 3.1 deg/s (60x10x10, 6Kg, maneuver time 5 sec)
- 12U NanoSatellite: 1.5 deg/s (60x20x10, 12Kg, maneuver time 5 sec)
Output Torque: 2mNm
Voltage: 5 V and 3.3V
Power @ half momentum: 4.4 W
Interface: UART/RS485
Optional Accessories: GNSS Receiver and star tracker

Applications

The TensorADCS-20m is an integrated Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS), specifically designed for 6U to 12U CubeSats. It incorporates variable-speed, single-gimbal Control Moment Gyroscopes (CMGs) to enhance torque efficiency while minimizing power consumption.

Earth Observation: The system's fine-pointing capabilities enable high-precision imaging and data collection of Earth's surface.

Precise Maneuvering: The TensorADCS-20m facilitates accurate satellite orientation adjustments, essential for tasks such as target tracking and alignment with communication links.

Autonomous Operations: With embedded attitude determination and control algorithms, the system supports autonomous modes like sun pointing, detumbling, and safe mode, reducing the need for extensive ground intervention.

Key features

Pointing Knowledge3 arcsec with star tracker
0.3 deg standard config.
Max. Momentum20.8 mNms 3-axis
Slew Rate> 5 deg/s
Control Accuracy0.1 deg
Max. Torque0.12 Nm
InterfaceRS-485 or UART
DimensionsDiscrete package, see ICD for details
Nominal Voltage3.3 V and 5 V
Optional AccessoriesGNSS Receiver and Star Tracker
Mass850 g
Power< 5 W

Customization

Different mechanical interfaces are available:

Dual "Tuna Can" configuration, where each CMG is located in their respective "Tuna Can".
Enclosed and CubeSat compatible ADCS box.
Discrete version where each component is delivered as a separate item, for advanced modularity. Custom brackets for CMG available on demand

3U and 12-24U versions (TensorADCS-10m and TensorADCS-40m) also available.

Flight heritage

The Tensor Tech TensorADCS-20m is the evolution of the TensorADCS-10m that has achieved flight heritage in 2022 and has flown on several missions since then.

Manufacturing

IPC Class 3 Production and Assembly

Testing & qualification

Environmental Test Following NASA GEVS

Export control

ITAR-Free

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Last updated: 2026-03-11