One of the most exciting parts of the astrophysical spectrum is the near-ultraviolet (NUV: 1400 – 2700Å), where there are a number of important atomic and molecular lines. We built a payload called Spectroscopic Investigation of Nebular Gas (SING) to map spectral features over nebular regions such as supernova remnants, planetary nebulae, and star forming regions. SING has a unique combination of spectral and spatial resolution, sensitivity to investigate diffuse sources, and mission lifetime required to probe the physics of nebulae or the ISM. As the payload orbits the earth, the resulting survey using the spectrograph will create a map of the sky covered within the field of view (FOV) of the payload constrained by the orbital inclination of the spacecraft. 

The payload contains optics for the NUV spectrograph, an MCP-based detector, and other required electronic components. SING is designed to operate as a scanning sky mission from a Low Earth Orbit platform. We have also built a star sensor prototype called StarberrySense to support astronomy missions. The sensor will provide pointing information, which is crucial for astronomical observations from space. The sensor was built, qualified, and flown on the PSLV-C55 Experimental module to determine its performance and survivability in space. Finally, I will also present the development of an RFI monitor for a LEO mission aimed at assessing the feasibility of detecting the redshifted 21 cm hydrogen line from the Dark Ages and the Cosmic Dawn.