Planck and Herschel updates
Tue Feb 7, 2006 at 20:23 UTC
Herschel Ready for Mechanical Vibration and Shock Tests
The completed Herschel Structural and Thermal Qualification model satellite has been mounted onto the HYDRA platform in preparation for mechanical vibration and shock tests to complete the environmental qualification campaign. This test is to ensure the satellite can cope with the vibrations experienced during launch by the Ariane V launcher.
Image Credit: ESA
The integrated Herschel Structural and Thermal Qualification model plus heatshield ready for vibrational and shock testing.
Planck Ready to Go
The Planck Flight Model is currently being prepared for transport from the prime contractor Alcatel Alenia Space (located in Cannes, France) to the cryogenic test facility at Centre Spaciale de Liege (Belgium) where the spacecraft will undergo thermal balance testing.
Image Credit: ESA
The Planck flight model prior to loading into the transport container.
In its current configuration all essential electronics are integrated as well as two main cryogenic coolers. The test in the specially equipped vacuum chamber in CSL will be executed in March 2006. A second campaign in the same chamber will be executed mid 2007 when the full spacecraft configuration, including the instruments and the telescope, has been established.
ESA Science & Technology News Releases
