The twin RBSP satellites and the Van Allen radiation belts to be studied (JHU/APL)
RUAG Aerospace Sweden AB, earlier known as Saab Space, will deliver interface rings and a clamp-band separation system for release of the first of the two satellites into Earth orbit. A similar system from a different supplier will release the second satellite from the Atlas V launch vehicle. RUAG is a regular supplier to United Launch Alliance for these separation systems. The RUAG Aerospace separation system offers a unique low-shock separation level that provides benefits for satellite mechanical design. The low-shock opening device of the system also enables on-ground testing with a minimum of refurbishments between testing and launch preparations. RUAG Aerospace will also assist APL engineers in preparations for launch. RUAG Aerospace Sweden will deliver the separation system components in December 2009.
RUAG Aerospace Austria GmbH, earlier known as Austrian Aerospace, has been selected to develop and build two Multipurpose Integration Stands for the RBSP mission. The two units will enable in-facility mobility and handling (tilting and rotating) of satellites of up to 1,250 kg mass in both horizontal and vertical positions. The equipment is based on design features derived from a multitude of similar units developed by RUAG Aerospace in Austria over the last 20 years for instruments and spacecraft from 100 kg up to 20 000 kg.
The Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP) mission is a part of NASA’s “Living With a Star” program. The mission will provide unprecedented insight into the physical dynamics of the radiation belts and give scientists the data they need to make predictions of changes in this critical region of space. The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory will build and operate the twin probes, which are scheduled to launch in 2011 for a two-year primary mission. Instrumentation is being built by a number of universities. The RBSP satellites will measure particles, waves, and magnetic and electrical fields in the near-Earth space to advance understanding of how fluctuations in the energy flow from the sun affect what is called “space weather”. Knowledge about these radiation belt dynamics is important not only for the safety of manned space operations, but also for the operation of satellites in orbit and of high-tech systems on the ground.