Innovative Hybrid Magnetometer Enhances Spacecraft Control Systems

A team sponsored by NASA is pioneering a transformative approach to spacecraft attitude control through the development of a hybrid magnetometer system that simultaneously measures magnetic fields and controls spacecraft orientation. This new system is designed to be compact and lightweight, allowing for onboard accommodation without the need for traditional boom structures, which are often cumbersome and costly. By enabling smaller spacecraft to conduct these essential magnetic measurements, the initiative promises to enhance our understanding of Earth’s magnetic field and its protective role against solar radiation.

The Earth’s magnetic field is critical in shielding our planet from harmful solar particles, which can disrupt communications and power grids. According to Dr. Sebastian Saarloos, a researcher at NASA, "The hybrid magnetometer system will not only facilitate the measurement of the magnetic field but could also replace standard attitude control systems, thereby optimizing spacecraft design and functionality" (NASA, 2025).

This system, referred to as the Hybrid Magnetometer and Attitude Determination and Control System (HyMag-ADCS), integrates both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) magnetic measurement capabilities. It utilizes a novel design that combines a three-axis search coil AC magnetometer and a three-axis Quad-Mag DC magnetometer. The Quad-Mag magnetometer employs machine learning algorithms to conduct measurements without the interference typically encountered by traditional systems, thus improving sensitivity and accuracy.

Dr. Mark Moldwin, a Professor of Space Science at the University of Michigan and project lead for HyMag-ADCS, emphasizes the significance of this technology: "This innovation allows us to reduce the size, weight, and power requirements (SWAP+C) of our instrumentation while still delivering high-quality scientific data" (University of Michigan, 2025). The integration of machine learning into the system represents a significant advancements in noise reduction, allowing for clearer data collection from the spacecraft’s sensors.

The innovative design of HyMag-ADCS aims to facilitate the deployment of constellations of small satellites, which can collaboratively observe and measure the Earth's magnetic field. This capability is particularly crucial for understanding space weather phenomena, which pose risks to both terrestrial and orbital assets. As noted by Dr. Jhanene Heying-Melendrez, a PhD student involved in the project, "The ability to utilize multiple small satellites to gather data over a broad range of spatial and temporal scales will enhance our predictive capabilities regarding solar storms and their impact on Earth" (University of Michigan, 2025).

The project's funding is part of NASA’s Heliophysics Technology and Instrument Development for Science (H-TIDeS) program, which aims to advance technologies essential for future space missions. As the HyMag-ADCS system is still in the developmental phase, the team anticipates completing a full engineering design unit in the near future, which will be crucial for upcoming missions, including the Artemis program.

Looking ahead, the successful implementation of the HyMag-ADCS could revolutionize how scientific measurements are conducted in space. As Dr. Moldwin asserts, "The potential applications of this technology extend beyond Earth orbit, paving the way for enhanced scientific exploration of planetary bodies and other celestial phenomena" (NASA, 2025).

The project is primarily staffed by undergraduate and graduate students, providing essential hands-on training for the next generation of scientists and engineers. This educational component not only enriches the students' experience but also ensures a continuous influx of innovative ideas and perspectives into the field of space science. The HyMag-ADCS project exemplifies the intersection of education, research, and technological advancement, embodying a forward-thinking approach to the challenges of modern space exploration.