Object Details
Manufacturer
Radio Corporation of America
Summary
This device was used to test solar panels of communications satellites prior to launch. Solar panels are a crucial component of a communications satellite, essential to providing the spacecraft with sufficient power continuously over a period of years. Testing the panels prior to launch ensured that they performed as required once in space.
The test fixture holds a series of standard light sockets and bulbs. For a test, the fixture would be positioned near a satellite's solar panels. Additional test equipment would then assess if the solar panels, each covered with numerous individual solar cells, converted light energy into electrical energy according to expected performance criteria.
Lockheed Martin donated this artifact to the Museum in 1998.
Credit Line
Gift of Lockheed Martin
Inventory Number
A19980296000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
EQUIPMENT-Test
Materials
Aluminum
Aluminized Mylar
Ceramic
Adhesive
Plastic
Copper Alloy
Stainless Steel
Dimensions
3-D: 367 × 147.3 × 245.1cm (12 ft. 1/2 in. × 58 in. × 96 1/2 in.)
Storage: 367 × 147.3 × 264.2cm (12 ft. 1/2 in. × 58 in. × 104 in.)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19980296000