Project summary

The aim of the ADCOSSPA project is to development and test the mechanical structure of the microsattelite electronic housing, made from CFRPC polymer matrix composites. The goal is to obtain a lighter, mechanically durable structure, which meets the requirements in terms of electrical, thermal and resistance to radiation conditions. The project phases focus on demonstration of the functionality of composite structure proposed for the housing and not its design aspect. The project will result in a study as well as a demonstration prototype of the microsatellite electrical housing’s mechanical composite structure. The composite demonstrator will be tested in conditions simulating work conditions (Low Earth Orbit – LEO conditions, altitude < 2000 km, for a microsatellite) to determine if it meets the requirements set for the already existing aluminum structures (taken as reference).

General objectives

The general objective of the  “Advanced Composite Structures for Space Applications”project is  to develop and test the mechanical structure of a microsatellite electrical housing, made of composite material, durable and lighter than the aluminum reference structure, with integrated control systems for resistance to thermal cycles during operation and meets the required dimensional stability, thermo-electric conductivity and radiation proofing.
The measurable objectives of the project are in accordance with the STAR programme objectives regarding RDI projects. The project’s specific objectives are in accordance with the programme objectives and priorities, in that:
- the project allows identification of national technological research niches, with application in both space and aeronautical domains,  by achieving a complete fabrication cycle for the composite material space structures (e.g. microsatellite electrical housing);
- the ADCOSSPA project activities are aligned  to the optional ESA programme’ objectives, mainly to the constant demand of weight reduction and increase functional performances for spacecraft structure (including microsatellites) ;
- complex research and technological development activities include fundamental and applied research, and they are conducted inside a national representative consortium for designing, developing and testing composite materials structures. In that respect, the objectives of the project are being undertaken by a consortium including two research institutions with knowledge and expertise in the composite materials field, ensuring technical and scientific competence in the targeted domain.
Specific/technical Objectives
The technical and scientific barriers to be overcome by the project are related to the critical working conditions in space for such mechanical structures. The „On-ground Environment” (pre-launch), „Launch Environment” and „Space Environment” conditions must be taken into account when designing and manufacturing the mechanical structure of satellite subassembly (microsatellite).  The major challenge will be for the final mechanical composite structure to perform at least comparable to the reference metallic structure (the aluminum housing) regarding: heat dissipation, good protection against space radiation but also superior dimensional stability (thermal cycles conditions), impact resistance, vibrations, smaller weight and higher stiffness.

Activities and Responsibilities Pertaining to Each Participant

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