Force-Limiting Testing for the Small Explorer Satellite Program at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

The Wide Field Infrared Explorer (WIRE) and Transition Region Coronal Explorer (TRACE) Space-craft underwent random vibration testing using force-limiting techniques as a means of controlling the vibration input motions. Interface force measurements were made for random vibration tests. Automatic force feedback notching was provided for the random vibration tests. This paper presents the methods employed to determine force spectrums. Test results are presented to show the effects of the force-limiting technique.