Member Spotlight – Spencer Leaf

Meet Spencer Leaf: A Propelling Force in AlbertaSAT’s SPIDERSAT Team

In the bustling corridors of AlbertaSAT, a university club dedicated to satellite technology, Spencer Leaf stands out not only for his orbital role but also for his deep passion for space exploration. As a Co-deputy Lead for the Altitude Determination and Control System (ADCS), Spencer plays an essential role in maneuvering satellites, a task that grows increasingly complex and rewarding with each academic year.

Bridging Years and Building Satellites

Sling shooting towards his fourth year of mechanical engineering, Spencer is also an enthusiastic member of the mechanical engineering hockey team, balancing rigorous academics with athletic endeavors. His journey with AlbertaSAT began two years ago, driven by a fascination with the club’s mission and inspired by his elder brother, a fellow mechanical engineer.

Leadership and Inspiration in Space Engineering

As the Co-deputy Lead for ADCS, Spencer’s responsibilities are critical. The ADCS is crucial for the precise positioning of satellites, a task that requires a keen understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of mechanical engineering. Spencer’s involvement with AlbertaSAT has significantly honed his project management, social, and leadership skills—qualities that are vital for his dream job as a dynamical engineer in space engineering at ASACS.

The Orbit of Growth and Learning

Reflecting on his initial experiences, Spencer recalls feeling inadequate during his first leadership role in an engineering class. However, his time with AlbertaSAT, particularly on projects like Spider Sat and ADCS, has been transformational. These experiences have not only boosted his confidence but have also ingrained a deep sense of dedication—something he believes is essential for success in any long-term project.

Blasting Off Beyond Engineering

When he’s not designing control systems for satellites, Spencer enjoys a mix of rock and country-pop music, with bands like Imagine Dragons among his favorites. His varied interests reflect the breadth of his personality, from tackling the challenges of fluid dynamics in his favorite class, MEC E 331, to imagining the possibilities of life on Mars, a place he’d choose to visit to glean insights into Earth’s potential future.

The Rewarding Challenge of Satellite Building

If asked to share one thing about building a satellite, Spencer would emphasize the increasing difficulty but also the rewarding nature of the process. Being part of a group so dedicated to space exploration keeps him motivated through the complexities of his studies and projects. This sentiment is echoed in his interest in other AlbertaSAT projects like the new CMD satellite, an innovative venture that challenges the constraints of gravity.

A Flavour of Innovation

When prompted with a lighter question about what ice cream flavor the SpiderSat would be, Spencer’s answer was “Rocky Road”—a playful nod to the challenging yet rewarding path of satellite engineering.

Through his journey with AlbertaSAT, Spencer Leaf not only exemplifies dedication and innovation but also represents the spirit of collaboration and growth that is essential in the field of space technology. His story is a beacon for aspiring engineers, showing that with passion and perseverance, the sky is not the limit; rather, it’s just the beginning.