Project NeT Pioneer

Digital, standardized, automated, and remote-controlled testing facilities for News Space

 

In the Net Pioneer project Fraunhofer is pooling its testing expertise to cover the entire satellite life cycle. We are investigating how digitalization, standardization, automation, and remote assistance can accelerate and streamline satellite testing, making it more cost-effective and reproducible. To this end, we are establishing a testing facility that is designed to address typical qualification and verification steps ranging from mechanical and environmental testing (e.g. thermal vacuum, vibration, shock) to radiation effects and electromagnetic compatibility, as well as communication, navigation, and antenna tests and optical system characterization. A data room based on Gaia-X standards that features test-as-a-service functions is being created, so that test processes, results, and metadata can be shared and reused in a secure and machine-readable way.

Modular, fully non-magnetic measurement setup in an MSR

Our focus is on magnetic cleanliness testing in a magnetically shielded room (MSR). At Fraunhofer IPM we operate an MSR with a usable volume of approximately 2 × 2 × 2 meters, where reproducible residual fields of around 1 to 2 nanotesla and fluctuations in the picotesla range can be achieved. This environment allows for highly sensitive measurements using 3-axis fluxgate magnetometers and novel optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs). OPM exhibit particularly low noise levels down to the fT range under shielding conditions. The result is field maps with significantly higher resolution and precise multi-dipole models even for weak magnetic sources. A modular, fully non-magnetic measurement setup made of carbon and suitable plastics ensures fast setup times and high reproducibility.

Non-magnetic boxes for transport and measurement constant conditions

Fraunhofer IPM relies on a non-magnetic transport and measurement boxes for logistics and handling. Customers use these boxes to send satellites or subsystems to the laboratory. The device is introduced into in the measurement chamber without any rearrangement and is returned to the customer in the same setup. This procedure maintains constant alignment and boundary conditions, reducing risks and throughput times.

Remote assistance

The testing procedure is clearly defined. Based on a CAD model and the supplied test object, standardized measurement sequences are performed in the MSR using fluxgate magnetometers and OPMs. Automated data acquisition and evaluation generate a robust multi-dipole model. Concrete proposals for reducing or compensating for residual magnetization are then derived. This significantly contributes to precise position control, sensitive sensor technology, and the smooth operation of space missions. The acquired data are provided digitally and edited as electronic datasheets. The data can also be integrated into digital twin models. In the future, this service will be integrated into test-as-a-service workflows and made accessible and usable via data spaces such as COOPERANTS, and platforms such as OpenSemanticLab. Remote assistance will support the acquisition, preparation, and implementation processes, especially for New Space players who previously could only address magnetic cleanliness at great expense.

A modular setup has already been implemented in the MSR. Comparative measurements between fluxgate and OPM have confirmed the resolution gain of quantum sensor technology. The evaluation process is currently undergoing further automation. Prototype measurements are feasible in the short term. In the medium term, Fraunhofer IPM aims to conduct regular measurement campaigns with standardized procedures, including machine-readable results and connection to digital twins.

Project partners

• Fraunhofer AVIATION & SPACE (Central office, project coordination))
• Fraunhofer EMl
• Fraunhofer IIS
• Fraunhofer INT
• Fraunhofer IOF
• Fraunhofer IPM
• Fraunhofer ISC
• Fraunhofer IWU

Project term

06/15/2024 – 12/15/2025

Project funding

Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy