YouTube - University of Leicester CubeSat

A video on YouTube from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom demonstrates the proposed deployment of an antenna from the PLUME cubesat

In Space operations that on Earth can seem trival take on an added dimension. Every operation of an amateur satellite has to work first time. When it's in space travelling at over 30,000 km an hour you don't get a second chance.

The YouTube description says

This video shows a demonstration of the antenna deployment mechanism for the PLUME CubeSat, using a full scale wooden mock up.

The antennas are constructed out of flexible steel measuring tape and tied down against the body of the satellite using nylon fishing line. The fishing line passes inside the CubeSat via holes drilled in the body and then through a coil of nichrome wire.

When a current is passed through the coil it heats up and melts the fishing line causing the antennas to spring out to their deployed configuration.

For more info please visit http://cubesat.wikidot.com

Watch the University of Leicester CubeSat: PLUME Antenna Deployment Demonstration