Spacecraft Container

RUAG Space delivers Spacecraft Containers tailored to customer requirements. Pressurized and non-pressurized Transport and Storage Satellite Containers equipped with dynamic damping systems, thermal control and filtering systems protect the satellites during road and air transportation and long term storage.

The following features can be provided as example:

• Compatibility for requested air craft transportation with respect to air craft type (Boeing 747, Antonow 124, Beluga,...)
• Fulfilling of IATA (International Air Transport Association) requirements for air transport
• High passive thermal performance and self powered active thermal control
• N2 - Pressurization System with automatic control of internal overpressure, as well as emergency venting and breathing capability. Alternately free breathing containers have been designed.
• Support for several configurations (dry/wet) of the Spacecraft via adjustable damping systems
• Remotely operated fixation of the Spacecraft within the Satellite Container

The typical configuration of a spacecraft Transport and Storage Container is a flat base frame, a thermally insulated tub and a removable lid with external thermal insulation. The top is a pressure - vessel enclosure to provide the best load capability with minimum dimensions.

The joint between the removable lid and container base is sealed by an inflatable seal. Quick - release fasteners secure the cover to the base.

Joints are welded to minimize sealing problems. For high mass satellites, carbon and stainless steel is chosen. For both cases the material selected for the interface to the Spacecraft is Aluminium alloy.

Aluminium alloy is used as structural material due to its light weight, its cleanliness and its favourable magnetic properties.

The environmental requirements are achieved by a dry nitrogen overpressure system and a self-regulating Thermal Control Unit, which incorporates its own diesel generator and heating/cooling equipment.

A helicable damping systems attenuate shock and vibration. Instrumentation fitted comprises a Shock Recorder and a Temperature and Humidity recorder. In - facility mobility of the Container is assisted by braked, swivel - lock castors, which can be retracted for transport.

The typical Qualification Process for a Satellite Container comprises tests for:

• Function Sequence
• Gas Tightness
• Dynamic Response (Drop Test, Road Test)
• Thermal Behavior
• Water Spray Test
• Electrical Bonding Test

RUAG Space provides container solutions for constellation satellites

RUAG Space will deliver 15 containers, 33 trolleys and further equipment for the transport and integration of several hundred satellites of a US telecommunications company. RUAG Space will be supplying tailor-made container solutions for transporting these satellites to the world's rocket launch centers.

Pressurised Satellite Containers for the following programs:

Non Pressurised Satellite Containers for the following programs: