Pruett, W. E. | Engineering Papers

NASA NTRS1972

UK-4 prototype spacecraft magnetic tests

The spacecraft was tested in a magnetic test facility which uses a 42 ft. diameter coil system to produce a controlled magnetic field of high uniformity over a large central volume. The primary objectives of the tests were: (1) to determine the permanent, induced, and stray magnetic moments of the spacecraft and to assess its magnetic stability; (2) to evaluate the magnetorquer coil system; and (3) to deperm, compensate, and make other adjustments necessary to achieve satisfactory magnetic characteristics for the spacecraft. The test facility and procedures are described together with the results obtained. In addition, the problems encountered during the tests and the significance of the test findings are discussed.

Pruett, W. E.↗

NASA NTRS1972

UK-4 flight spacecraft magnetic tests

Magnetic tests conducted on the UK-4 spacecraft are discussed. The objectives of the test are: (1) to determine the permanent, induced, and stray magnetic moments of the spacecraft, (2) to assess its magnetic stability, (3) to determine the dipole moment produced by energizing the magnetorquer coil, (4) to measure the despin torque due to eddy current and magnetic hysteresis, and (5) to deperm, compensate, and make other adjustments necessary to achieve satisfactory magnetic characteristics for the spacecraft.

Pruett, W. E.↗