Dual-purpose space simulation facility for plasma thruster and satellite testing

Abstract

The Space Simulation Facility (S2F) is a dual purpose system designed to conduct plasma thruster testing and thermal vacuum qualification of satellites and instrumentation. Commissioned in 2013 at the Australian National University's Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre (AITC), the S2F brings a diverse range of new measurement capabilities to Australia. The S2F is a Dynavac-built system capable of thermal cycling from -170°C to +150°C at 3°C/min average ramp rate. A removable platen and shroud assembly accommodates test articles up to 500 kg with volumes up to 1.6m × 1.6m × 2.25m. A plume capture system and moveable 1.2 m long chamber annulus allows for plasma thruster test and diagnostic configurations up to 1.6m × 1.6m × 2.2m with offline thruster installation capability. The S2F system is capable of pumping from atmosphere to a pressure below 1E-5 Torr in less than eight hours. Twenty-five available thermocouple channels and 33 test unit readings allow for detailed test article monitoring and data collection. The S2F was conceived for maximum flexibility and the ability to support a wide range of projects well into the future. Initial supported projects include instrumentation evaluation for the Giant Magellan Telescope, the Australian Plasma Thruster, and three Australian CubeSats. Here we will present a detailed overview of the project goals and design considerations, as well as the initial test projects undertaken in S2F.