Surviving Space: Environmental Testing for Cubesats

Cubesats, despite their small size, must endure the unforgiving conditions of space. To ensure mission success, rigorous environmental testing is essential. This process simulates the stresses experienced during launch and orbit, validating the satellite's ability to function as intended.

Key environmental tests include:

• Vibration Testing:  This simulates the intense shaking during launch, ensuring that fasteners and components remain secure. Tests are conducted to the levels specified in the CubeSat-to-dispenser interface control document (ICD).

• Shock Testing: This verifies the cubesat can withstand sudden shocks that might occur during separation from the launch vehicle.

• Thermal Vacuum Testing:  Two types of thermal vacuum testing are common:

  • Bakeout:  The cubesat is heated in a vacuum chamber to outgas materials, preventing contamination of sensitive components.

  • Cycling: The satellite is exposed to repeated temperature cycles in a vacuum, simulating the temperature swings experienced in orbit. This helps identify potential issues like solder joint failures.

• Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Testing: This ensures that the satellite's electronics do not interfere with other spacecraft or ground systems and are not susceptible to external electromagnetic interference.

  
  

All tests must be conducted according to the specific requirements outlined in the ICD, including test levels, durations, and acceptance criteria.

Thorough documentation of test procedures and results is crucial, including photos, data plots, and analyses of any anomalies.  This information serves as evidence of the cubesat's flight readiness.

By subjecting cubesats to these rigorous tests, we can increase confidence in their ability to withstand the challenges of space and successfully achieve their mission objectives.