LARGE FIBERGLASS MODULAR ANTENNA SUPPORT TEST STRUCTURE


APPLICATION:

Space exploration. RF test fixture for interplanetary probe Europa Clipper’s antenna.

PREVIOUS LIMITING TECHNOLOGY:

Large precision structures like this (60 feet wide) have been prohibitively expensive to build and can be difficult to transport between facilities. Rock West developed a unique, affordable solution while maintaining precision.

CHALLENGE:

Our customer needed a large 60 ft long, 28 ft tall precision deployable test structure. It had to be strong, affordable, lightweight and RF transparent. The antenna being tested will be mounted on the Europa Clipper spacecraft that will pass by Europa – a moon of Jupiter – and scan for liquid water below the surface.

SOLUTION

Rock West proposed a solution using square tubes produced from COTS fiberglass beams. By using smart machining processes for repeatable accuracy, we were able to meet tolerances difficult to reach with large structures. It was preassembled at Rock West for proof testing, then deployed both at the JPL and NICW RF test ranges.

Fiberglass modular antenna support test structure deployed in a warehouse while supported by a row of sawhorses.
Image shows static load test of the deployable test structure taking place in parking lot. There is a large metal structure raising up and supporting the deployed RF test fixture at two points. The precision test fixture has multiple weights attached across the distance of the structure.
Image shows dark hills with a setting sun. Half of the deployed antenna support test fixture extents from the central supports (Coutesy NASA/JPL-CalTech)
Image shows a building in the late afternoon sun and open sky with light clouds. A large, narrow, and tall tower structure with stairs is in the center in front of the building. The antenna support support is deployed off both sides of the tower near the top. There are some small wire supports attaching the long fixture to the top of the tower. (Coutesy NASA/JPL-CalTech)