Context

Thales Alenia Space engaged us during the Qualification Acceptance Review phase of the satellite-based communication system of the German Armed Forces (SATCOMBw) programme. The objective was to perform Thermal Balance (TB) / Thermal Vacuum (TV) test temperature predictions in accordance with the TB/TV specification, correlations, and final flight temperature predictions of the SATCOMBw satellites, based on preliminary inputs from Thales Alenia Space.

Combining 40 years of experience and a unique diversity of expertise, talents and cultures, Thales Alenia Space architects, designs and delivers high technology solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science, and orbital infrastructures.

Problem

Thales Alenia Space required a satellite-correlated Thermal Mathematical Model (TMM) to update the thermal control design for the SATCOMBw programme.

Solution

Nitrexo approached the challenge with precision and expertise:

• Set the satellite TMM in the test configuration defined in the TB/TV specification.
• Performed TB/TV test predictions in accordance with the TB specification.
• Attended the TB/TV test.
• Updated the spacecraft Thermal Control System (dissipation power and heater lines’ thresholds, OSR area, etc.).
• Developed a flight final predictions thermal model of the spacecraft using the satellite thermal model from CDR as input.
• Conducted numerous analysis cases to study the spacecraft’s thermal performance in various configurations throughout the mission.
• Updated the Design Definition Report detailing the Thermal Control System (TCS) characteristics and a Design Justification File Report, which included the thermal model description, main temperature results, and heater power consumption.

Outcome

• A comprehensive correlated thermal model tailored for the SATCOMBw mission.
• Updated Design Definition File (DDF) and Design Justification File (DJF) reports, providing insights into temperature results and heater power budgets.
• The COMSATBw-1 military satellite was successfully launched, followed by the successful launch of COMSATBw-2 on an Ariane 5 launcher from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana.

The SATCOMBw satellite-based communication system was developed to meet the requirements of the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr).

Let’s create another success story together. Contact us today at info@nitrexo.com.