Helmholtz Cage Software Development for CubeSat Testing

This project aims to develop and deploy Python-based software for use with the Helmholtz Cage. The cage operates on three power supplies, where current is controlled using three H-bridges, an Arduino, and a Raspberry Pi. It comprises a two-coil, three-axis design, enabling precise control of the central magnetic field. Its primary function is to serve as a testing device for our upcoming CubeSat mission. We approached the objective by developing multiple Python libraries, each responsible for controlling a specific component of the Helmholtz Cage's systems, and then bundling them together into a Python shell. As a result, we achieved full control over the cage, enabling us to read magnetometer data during active current flow. This experience underscored the significance of modularity in our approach and provided valuable insights for future endeavors. Our next milestone involves the development of an automated function designed to process magnetic field data from Basilisk Solar Simulators and calculate the necessary current values to attain the desired magnetic field magnitude.