A Satellite Micro-Vibration Test Platform to Isolate Vibrations

The European Space Agency (ESA) has added a micro-vibration test instrument, developed by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), to its satellite testing facilities. NPL is the United Kingdom’s National Measurement Institute, developing and maintaining the national primary measurement standards. The instrument measures vibrations generated by satellite subsystems, to quantify their effects on images and measurements made from space. This facility is the result of five years of collaboration between NPL and ESA.