Infrared tests (IR / OSTC)

When a geostationary satellite enters the sunlight from the Earth's shadow, high temperature gradients occur, particularly on large-area components such as solar panels, yokes or antenna reflectors. These extreme and constantly recurring thermal loads (thermal stress) can be simulated with the help of infrared radiation fields. While the chamber wall continuously reflects the cold space background, the IR system takes over the temperature control of the test specimen.

Two standard thermal walls (3.8 m x 2.6 m and 5.1 m x 2.4 m) with infrared (IR) emitters are available for these tests. Tests in the temperature range from 98 K to 470 K and changeover ramps of up to 40 K/min can be realized.

In addition to the standard IR radiation fields described above, IABG can also set up project-specific IR systems for special project requirements (e.g. for ESA's "Bepi Colombo" Mercury mission).