SPECIALIST FEEDBACK

These devices are used to propel and position spacecraft with extreme accuracy and efficiency.

For testing QinetiQ uses vacuum chambers where motion controlled beam probe arrays are used to characterise the ion flux and beam divergence of the thrusters. As an intrinsic part of the beam probe array, McLennan supplies high vacuum and extreme temperature compatible stepper motors and planetary gearboxes with specialist feedback devices, stepper drives and controls to precisely position the probe arm with its array of plasma diagnostics sensors. The two synchronised motor/gearbox assemblies are mounted either side of the chamber’s horizontal axis and rotate the probe arm to track a vertical path through the beam.