Testing the Special Features of the CLUSTER Thermal Control Concept in the PFM Thermal Balance Test

CLUSTER is a scientific space mission envisaging an investigation of the Earth's plasma environment.

The paper gives a short overview of the thermal design of CLUSTER, with emphasis on some special thermal control design features.

In the CLUSTER PFM TB/TV Test, the thermal control concept has been qualified and verified. The paper will describe the first results of the evaluation of the thermal behaviour of the Cluster PFM and the special design features in particular.

In the text for some detailed information reference is made to SAE Paper 921325.