CanSat 2024 in Vasa, Finland

Nine teams gathered in Vasa from April 4th to 7th to participate in the third CanSat competition organized by ESERO Finland. Their secondary missions showcased a wide variety of ideas. Some of the teams used the CanSat NeXT kit, developed by Arctic Astronautics, while others started from scratch.

The first day of a campaign can be quite hectic, especially when you’re working on a CanSat competition project. This kind of project cannot be completed entirely before the deadline. There are always some details that require improvement, and whenever you update one aspect of the code, you may need to correct something else as well. However, in this case, the deadline is fixed, and once the CanSat is integrated into the rocket, it is as ready as it will ever be.

On the day before the launch, all teams participating in the event were required to present their projects to a panel of judges. This was a great opportunity for the teams to showcase their knowledge, expertise, and understanding of the scientific principles that were behind their mission. Additionally, the teams were obligated to share the bigger picture behind their secondary mission, especially if their project could benefit science. This was the perfect time for them to share their story.

The CanSats were also inspected and tested by our ”Rocket Guys”. The CanSat had to fit into the payload section of the rocket, and the telemetry was tested in rough conditions of external signals. Additionally, the CanSat had to pass a drop test.

*This is what we’ve been waiting for. But unlike Werner von Braun, we cared where the rockets came down.*

The launch of the CanSats marked both the final stage of the preparation process and the beginning of the scientific analysis of the data. Unfortunately, the teams who launched their CanSats on Friday were met with unfavorable weather conditions. However, they had enough time to analyze the results in detail and prepare their presentations. On Saturday, the weather improved significantly, with clear skies and calm winds. Nevertheless, the teams only had a few hours left to complete their final presentations.

On a Sunday morning, what could be more intriguing than attending scientific presentations given by the next generation of scientists? Thanks to the wide range of secondary missions, the teams delivered presentations with great diversity.

One thing, though, was in common. When the jury asked what they would do differently if they were given a chance to start the project over. ”We would start earlier!”

A CanSat mission is a challenging scientific project that requires a considerable amount of time, skills, and knowledge. However, it also provides a unique opportunity to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired during your school days.