The European Space Agency (ESA) has granted the ALTER SPACE TEST CENTER official certification for the performance of satellite tests. This transforms the test centre of ALTER, a TÜV NORD GROUP company, from a recognised test facility into a fully certified laboratory for space testing and qualification.
The certification includes several state-of-the-art testing facilities at the laboratory in Madrid. These include a thermal vacuum system that simulates the extreme conditions in space and ensures that the satellite components can withstand the vacuum and temperature fluctuations. A mechanical shock tester is used to simulate the intense forces that occur during a rocket launch. There is also a vibration and shock test facility that specialises in assessing the resistance of satellites to vibrations and shocks. Finally, electromagnetic compatibility tests ensure that the satellites can function in the electromagnetic environment of space.
Space test centres must meet stringent requirements in terms of temperature, humidity, cleanliness and electrostatic discharge (SD), in addition to internal protocols and procedures that guarantee reliable results. ALTER’s investment enables these standards to be met and provides the New Space sector with a facility tailored to the specific requirements of small satellite testing.
“Cleanliness and contamination control are crucial factors in the testing of small satellites. Our ISO Class 8 clean room ensures a safe, particle-free environment, which is essential for successful testing. At ALTER, we have a modern infrastructure and highly qualified staff to meet the demanding standards of the space sector,” said Alina Spuma, Cleanliness and Contamination Control Expert at the ALTER SPACE TEST CENTER.
The test centre supports a large number of space missions by testing the required equipment and examining small satellites.
“Having passed the ESA audit our commitment to excellence and high quality in our work. ALTER has created an environment that meets the highest standards in the industry and allows small satellite testing to be carried out with guaranteed success,” said Emilia Santiago, ALTER Quality Director.
ALTER has more than 35 years of experience in the space sector and co-operates with aerospace companies worldwide. This extensive experience, combined with a modern infrastructure and dedicated professionals, emphasises ALTER’s role as a partner for space missions and small satellite testing.
About the European Space Agency:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space.
Founded in 1975, ESA is an intergovernmental organisation whose mission is to develop European space capabilities and ensure that investments in space benefit citizens in Europe and around the world.
By coordinating the financial resources and competences of its member states, ESA is able to carry out programmes and activities that go far beyond the capabilities of any single European country. It also works closely with the EU to implement the Galileo and Copernicus programmes and with Eumetsat to develop meteorological missions. You can find out more about ESA at www.esa.int.
About TÜV NORD GROUP
Since our foundation more than 150 years ago, we have been the global byword for security and trust. As a knowledge-based company, we have the digital future firmly in mind. With specialists ranging from engineers and IT security professionals to professionals for the mobility of tomorrow, we use our expertise in over 100 countries to ensure that our customers will be even more successful in the networked world.
