Multilayer Ti-Cu thin films for the gyroscope housings of the Gravity Probe B Spacecraft

摘要

The Gravity Probe B (GP-B) Spacecraft was launched on April 20, 2004. Multilayer Ti-Cu thin films have been coated on the Gravity Probe B gyroscope housings to form the electrostatic suspension electrodes and the support and spin-up lands. The main requirements for these electrode films are low electron field emission, smooth surfaces, good electrical and thermal conductivity, and resistance to arcing damage. The films have been studied by adhesion test, electron field emission, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and four-point resistivity measurements. 7-layer Ti-Cu films with smooth surfaces, good adhesion and low resistivity have been successfully used for the GP-B gyroscopes, meeting all requirements. The four gyroscopes in the spacecraft instrument performed well during the science data collection of more than one year in Earth orbit.