Window on the universe
Spacecraft window assemblies are key parts of manned missions – not only must they be strong and lightweight but must ensure the integrity of the craft in which they are fitted
In a first for the UK space industry, Magna Parva has won a contract from the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop the capability to design and test window assemblies for future manned space missions.
Until now, this capability has generally only been available in the ‘traditional’ manned space exploration countries.
Spacecraft window assemblies are key parts of manned missions – not only must they be strong and lightweight but must ensure the integrity of the craft in which they are fitted. As the strength of window glass is very dependent on its manufacture and its life history it is difficult to verify its suitability for use.
Over the next eighteen months, Magna Parva, which specialises in solving engineering problems in hostile environments, will deploy a team at its offices in Bardon Hill, Leicestershire and Harwell in Oxfordshire to develop a prototype of the window and testing apparatus to ECSS space standards.
The Magna Parva team consists of a small group of engineers and scientists with expertise across a broad range of technical and scientific areas. This cross-disciplinary approach will allow European space programmes to deploy a capability superior to the current visual inspection by employing testing and measurement techniques from other industries. The project will need to meet ESA's stringent requirements, and involve only non-destructive testing methods.
“We are very excited at being selected to deliver this important project”, says Andrew Bowyer, Commercial Director of Magna Parva. “It plays to our strengths in engineering for hostile environments, and in taking technology designed for one purpose and applying it to good effect elsewhere”.
Magna Parva has previously developed an ultrasonic drill tool for planetary sampling. It is currently helping to develop a ‘Life Marker’ chip for use on Mars, and an optics structure for the BepiColombo mission to Mercury; both instruments being led by the University of Leicester. Spin out innovations are now being applied to terrestrial commercial applications.
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