21ST SPACE SIMULATION CONFERENCE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE INTESPACE TEST CENTRE FOR THE ARIANE 5 LAUNCHER

摘要

INTESPACE, Test Centre, is situated in Toulouse (France) and was created to test satellites launched by ARIANE 1-4 and other Russian or American launchers. This test centre is dimensioned for testing satellites up to 3.5 tonnes having a head diameter of 3.65m, that is, of the class 1/2 ARIANE 4. Taking into account the arrival in the market of the ARIANE 5 launcher, it is necessary to make this center compatible with this new launcher and the other rival launchers. The developments envisaged will suit the needs of the ARIANE 5 (satellites with a mass of 5.5 tons having a diameter of 4.5m). This document presents all the developments taking place at the centre, particularly: The setting up of a large airlock for unloading, suitable for containers of huge dimensions. The setting up under one roof of different facilities (continuity of the 100 000 class). The development of a compact range (modification of the positioner of the specimen and the source). The setting up of a very powerful anechoic wall for electromagnetic compatibility tests. The development of vibrations facility by the setting up of a new system of vibrations of 320 kN with a large horizontal table. The adaptations in the thermal vacuum facilities, to make them compatible with the new satellite platforms. These developments will be completed by early 2001 and will allow a reduction in the time taken for testing and transfers between the testing zones as well as an increase in the competitiveness of the centre in the international market. It will also ensure that INTESPACE remains the leader among independent European space testing centers.