Structural Analysis
SERC engineers have the expertise and the industry-standard analytic tools/codes to support payload structural analysis from prototype to flight design. These analyses include mechanical and thermal stress analysis, fastener analysis per NSTS 08307, modal analysis, and model correlation to vibe test data. Other areas of structural expertise include electronic board evaluation for failures due to vibrations, stress analysis of complex optical assemblies, and the use of high resolution imagery data to monitor and characterize space system engineering structures.
We performed structural and vibrations analysis and testing for payloads flown on STS 107, including all verification documents related to mechanical design, structural analysis, vibrations, bolt analysis, and fracture control as part of the payload verification process. We have also accomplished opto-mechanical analysis for the Starnav II project and other structures related research such as space-based radar antenna dynamics and extreme environment petroleum drilling applications.
Thermal Analysis
Experienced SERC engineers support thermal research and conduct thermal analysis, including coupled orbital analysis, and testing services for ongoing space hardware projects. We use Thermal Desktop (w/SINDA) and other tools to analyze the thermal performance of a variety of components and subsystems in the space environment. In addition to thermal analyses of spacecraft hardware, we currently support NASA with thermal assessments of advance space suit designs. The STC's vacuum chamber and thermal cycling test facilities are used to verify our analytical models and confirm specific space hardware components satisfy thermal requirements.
Orbital Analysis
SERC engineers perform orbital analysis to determine thermal environments, pointing information, earth access for communications and imaging, self-shadowing information and other data for a variety of space hardware projects. We use the AGI STK/Professional software suite with 3-D capability to analyze various scenarios of interest to our customers. Through our connection with the Texas A&M Aerospace Engineering Department, we also have access to unique research codes being developed to model esoteric orbital scenarios for novel constellations with extraordinary properties.
Radiation Analysis
SERC engineers conduct radiation analyses and radiation testing in support of space projects. We use the Spenvis software suite to provide adequate shielding designs for spacecraft and individual payload systems. We also conduct radiation testing of payloads and individual electronic components at two on-campus test locations (Texas A&M Nuclear Science Center and the Cyclotron) and travel to Indiana University as needed to obtain long duration LEO radiation test results.
