The Delta Star Thermmal Vacuum Test: A Unique Approach to Space Thermal Simulation

Several techniques were developed to perform the thermal vacuum test of the Delta Star Spacecraft. Test design and fabrication was completed in only four months, producing a 21-zone, computer-modeled reflectorless lamp array system. Array zone control was based on discreet absorbed flux measurements provided by adiabatic coupons that were conceived to eliminate the need for conventional radiometers. Test requirements, methodology, anomalies, test data correlation, and flight data correlation are presented.