Sentinel: Early Dev

The Sentinel Data Logger (SDL) began as a compact avionics platform designed to capture high-resolution flight data during experimental rocket launches. Early in development, the focus was on building a robust hardware foundation capable of recording multiple synchronized sensor streams while remaining reliable in the harsh conditions of rocket flight. The board integrates an STM32-based microcontroller with several onboard sensors—including inertial measurement units and barometric pressure sensors—along with high-speed storage through QSPI flash and a micro-SD card. This architecture allows the system to log large volumes of flight data with precise timing while maintaining redundancy in case of storage or communication failures.

A key goal of the SDL design was modularity and expandability. The board exposes several communication interfaces such as I²C, SPI, and UART so additional sensors or subsystems can be added without redesigning the core hardware. This flexibility allows the logger to evolve alongside future rocket platforms and experiments. During early prototyping, careful attention was also given to signal integrity, power regulation, and board layout to ensure reliable operation during high-vibration launch conditions and rapid environmental changes.

The early development stage focused primarily on validating the hardware architecture and data-logging pipeline. Initial prototypes are intended to be flown on test rockets to collect baseline flight data, verify sensor performance, and evaluate system reliability. These early flights will help refine both the hardware and firmware before more advanced avionics features are introduced in future revisions. Ultimately, the SDL will serve as the foundational telemetry and data-collection system that will inform the design of more sophisticated flight computers in later rocket projects.