NIMPH AIT
The NIMPH project is progressing significantly and is currently in Phase C, corresponding to the high-level design phase. This key stage involves numerous tests designed to prepare the CubeSat for its space environment and validate its performance.
Vibration tests
With this in mind, we conducted vibration tests to reproduce the intense environment to which the nanosatellite will be subjected during launch. These tests validated the robustness of the structure and onboard equipment. The results obtained are very satisfactory and confirm the system’s resilience to mechanical stresses.
Optical chain tests
Furthermore, tests were carried out on the optical chain to evaluate its performance, particularly by measuring the insertion loss within the system. These tests characterize optical losses and validate the chain’s proper functioning under conditions representative of the mission.
Thermal testing
Using a Binder MKF 56 climate test chamber, we conducted thermal validation and characterization tests on the satellite interface board.
The objective of these tests was to subject the board to thermal cycles ranging from -40°C to +80°C (with a capacity to reach +110°C) in order to:
- Verify its proper operation during and after testing
- Analyze the impact of temperature on critical components (current limiters, circuit breakers, power supply circuits)
- Study the evolution of their performance under extreme conditions
These tests reproduce the harsh thermal environments that the board will face in orbit and constitute an essential step in the system qualification process. The results are very positive and reinforce our confidence for the remainder of the mission.
