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Part 3.2: NASA/KSC Advanced Functional Test

The 'Advance Functional Test' of the flight prototype SCM was performed at NASA's Kennedy Space Center under a subcontract to ASRC Aerospace Corp. NASA/KSC provided valuable independent verification that the SCM performs as was proposed. They also found the range over which the SCM could determine floating potential. The Advanced Functional Test demonstrates how the SCM will determine floating potential through electron spectroscopy and is the best 'technology readiness demonstration' that can be performed without actually launching the SCM into space. A detailed report for the test appears in this document as the appendix 'Report on NASA Advanced Functional Test'. The flight prototype SCM delivered to NASA can determine floating potential in the range of -145 to +45 volts. The SCM delivered to NASA would be useful on International Space Station as well as many other LEO craft since they do not normally charge beyond the -145 to +45 volt range.

Figure 3.2.01: SCM in place for Advance Functional Test. NASA/KSC December 2005