Mars Exploration Rover (MER) Airbag Retraction Actuator (ARA) Pyroshock Test Results

This paper presents the shock test results achieved in the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) airbag retraction actuator (ARA)/brush motor pyroshock qualification. The results of MER flight system pyrofiring tests are compared with ARA shock test requirements. Alternate test methods were developed in an effort to qualify critical MER equipment for adequate performance under actual flight pyroshock conditions. Simulated pyroshock qualification tests were conducted using shakers, mechanical impacts, and explosive charges for excitation. Comparisons of excitation and responses of an ARA subjected to different shock tests are presented.