On-Orbit Verification TET

Due to the high safety standards in the space industry every new product must go through a verification process before qualifying for operation in a space system. Within the verification process the payload undergoes a series of tests which prove that it is in accordance with mission requirements in terms of function, reliability and safety.

Important verification components are the qualification for use on the ground as well as the On-Orbit Verification (OOV), i.e. proof that the product is suitable for use under virtual space conditions (on-orbit). Here it is demonstrated that the product functions under conditions which cannot or can only be partially simulated on the ground.

As prime contractor for the TET-1 mission the responsibilities of Kayser-Threde include

• Definition & management of Ground-, Space- and Launch Segment
• Technical support of Payload suppliers
• Development of Payload Segment
• Control of Satellite Bus development, performed by Astro- und Feinwerk-technik Adlershof GmbH, Berlin
• Control of Ground Segment develop-
  ment, performed by DLR-GSOC, Oberpfaffenhofen.
  

11 payloads have been selected by DLR for the first TET mission. The payloads are developed by 11 different companies and institutions and comprise newest technology to be demonstrated for usage in space environment. The technical areas cover next generation solar arrays, navigation equipment, batteries, cameras, communication equipment, and satellite propulsion system and computer hardware.

The payload to satellite bus interface is realized and managed by a modular payload supply system developed by Kayser-Threde, allowing to be customized with minimum effort to the experiment needs and thereby reducing the effort for recurring missions.

TET-1 will be launched in a piggy-back configuration into a Low Earth Orbit with a Soyuz launcher with Fregat upper stage from Baikonur. The launch is planned for mid 2010, limiting the development time to about 24 months.

The project has successfully passed the PDR and is about to start the detailed design & manufacturing phase. Launch negotiations have been performed as well as the contracts with the payload providers have been signed.