Vibration Testing of Small Satellites
Short Course Immediately Following the SmallSat Conference
August 10, 2017, 2:00 - 6:00 PM
August 11, 2017, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Eccles Conference Center, Logan, UT
Refreshments and Friday Lunch Provided
Course Overview:
This new 12-hour course provides a tutorial, practical guidance, examples, and recommendations for testing a small satellite on an electrodynamic shaker. Addressed are sine-burst testing, random vibration testing, and low-level diagnostic sine sweeps. Notching, response limiting, and force limiting are addressed in detail, with examples. The course is primarily aimed at satellites in the 50 - 500 lb (23 - 230 kg) range, but it also applies to CubeSats. Most of the guidance applies to larger satellites as well if they will be tested on a shaker.
- establish an effective vibration test program
- identify and clearly state test objectives
- design (or recognize) a test that satisfies the objectives while minimizing risk of an over test
- establish pass/fail criteria and interpret test data
- write effective test plans and test reports
- build stakeholder confidence and get buy-in
Course Length:
One and one-half days
Target Audience:
All engineers & managers involved in ensuring small spacecraft can withstand launch environments