Contactless Measurement Technology for Spacecraft Is Being Adopted in Russia
The new approach will enable more accurate measurement of deformations in large structures and improve spacecraft reliability.
Specialists at Reshetnev have developed and implemented a technology for high-precision, contactless measurement of space structures, Russia’s space agency Roscosmos said.
The measurements rely on a laser radar and a photogrammetric system — a combination of software and hardware that converts photographs into detailed three-dimensional models. Similar systems are used to process Earth remote-sensing data.
Greater Reliability and Quality
The new technology makes it possible to measure thermoelastic deformations in large structures with greater accuracy. Changes in shape can be detected with precision down to several tens of microns, while parameter measurements can be carried out at temperatures ranging from –150°C to +150°C.
Manufacturing quality of reflectors, booms, and truss structures has improved, along with the overall reliability of spacecraft.
