ASPOC

The content of the project was a damage analysis on an ion emitter.

After a damage event, we were called in as part of the “ASPOC” (Active Spacecraft Potential Control) space project to determine the cause of the damage and to work out design modifications.

Results:

– Thermomechanical finite element analyses were used to determine the causal thermal stress.

– Finite element analyses (random response) were used to ensure durability during rocket launch.

The project was carried out by an international working group in which the Institute of Space Research (IWF) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences was the Principal Investigator. The development of instrument housing, lid and closure mechanisms for the ion emitter modules and test support was the responsibility of the Space Science Department of ESA at ESTEC.