Thandiwe Mnisi

Highly motivated and detail-oriented final year Electrical Engineering student with a strong passion for innovation and research. Possessing a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical electrical engineering principles. Published two conference papers on [A study of AIS frames sent by cubesats into the ground stations] and [A review of satellite power generation] in reputable international conferences, demonstrating expertise in space and satellite engineering. As an ambitious individual, the focus is on gaining advanced knowledge and field experience to further enhance professional growth and expertise.

Engineering professional with a robust background in conducting and supporting research initiatives within engineering environments. Proven ability to contribute to significant projects through effective problem-solving and innovative thinking. Known for fostering team collaboration and achieving consistent results, adapting seamlessly to evolving project requirements with skills in data analysis and technical documentation.

• A Study of AIS Frames sent by Cubesats into the ground stations, Conducted a research study to explore and propose techniques that can help to improve the shortcomings TDMA scheme currently used in the LEO Cubesats as regards taking AIS frames and sending them to the ground stations on one hand to mitigate signal degradation as well as tracking vessels that go AIS dark by implementing a Radio Triangulation System.
• Automated Closed-Loop Tank Level Control System, Designed an automated tank level control system to monitor and regulate liquid levels using PLCs and electronic circuits. Integrated comparators, SR latch logic, and LEDs to display valve states.
• Power Systems Load Flow and Short-Circuit Analysis, Conducted load flow and short-circuit analysis on a 4-bus electrical system using the Newton-Raphson method for efficiency and accuracy. To analyze bus voltages, phase angles, and power flow, simulations were performed in DigSilent Power Factory and MATLAB Simscape. A symmetrical short-circuit study at Bus 1 was conducted per IEC60909 standards to evaluate system safety and reliability.
• DC-to-DC Converter Design and Implementation, Collaborated on designing, simulating, and building a functional DC-to-DC converter as part of a team. Tasks included circuit design, simulations with PSIM and Multisim, and system integration to achieve desired voltage and efficiency.
• A Review of Satellite Power Generation: A Sustainable solution, Conducted a research on the current state of Cubesats power system by introducing an LDR tracking system.

• Published two IEEE conference papers focused on satellite communications and signal processing, contributing to academic and industry knowledge in space systems engineering.
• Interned at Astrofica Technologies, contributing to real-world satellite development projects in support of socio-economic advancement through space science and technology.
• Research Intern at FSATI (French South African Institute of Technology), assisting in CubeSat-based research under the Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC), with emphasis on embedded systems, telemetry, and Earth Observation applications.
• Selected to participate in high-level space engineering programs, demonstrating leadership potential and a strong commitment to capacity building in Africa’s space sector.
• Successfully collaborated with transdisciplinary teams on space technology research projects, gaining hands-on experience with industry-grade tools and protocols (e.g., MQTT, GNU Radio, and embedded systems programming).
• Contributed to knowledge-sharing and mentorship efforts through institutional and youth-focused platforms aligned with African space development goals.