The Comet Interceptor mission has been conceived to study a pristine #comet, observing its plasma, electric and magnetic fields, gas and dust, with the goal of gaining new insights into the evolution of interstellar bodies and the origins of the #SolarSystem.
It is an #ESA “Fast Class” project, with a nominal launch planned for 2028, based on an innovative multi-spacecraft concept that will enable simultaneous in-situ measurements in different regions of the coma (the nebulous envelope around the comet nucleus).
A key scientific focus is the investigation of the cometary #plasma. Achieving this ambitious scientific objective needs extremely precise measurements of the #electricfield, a technological challenge that requires careful preparation, rigorous methodology and long-term planning.
#EMC (Electro Magnetic Compatibility) test activities are currently underway in our Clean Room in Milan. Using a representative structure that faithfully reproduces the spacecraft interfaces, this setup enables highly realistic testing of the spacecraft #PFM (Proto Flight Model) units, as well as selected instruments.
These activities allow us to:
🛰️ assess mutual radio-frequency interactions among onboard units;
🛰️ identify and, if necessary, mitigate potential EMC criticalities;
🛰️ ensure compatibility between the platform and payload, particularly critical for EMC-sensitive instruments.
Following such preliminary tests, the integration campaign can begin with a significantly higher level of confidence.
We are proud, as OHB Italia S.p.A. , to contribute to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge, placing our expertise and facilities at the service of a truly unique scientific mission. 🚀
#SpaceScience #Plasma #Physics #SpaceEngineering
#SatelliteIntegration #SpaceSystems #ESA #OHBItalia #CleanRoom
#ProtoFlightModel #ElectricFieldMeasurements #SolarSystemInvestigation
