The Jules Verne Thermal Vacuum test was completed successfully after more than 18 days in the vacuum chamber at ESTEC, the ESA test centre, and in more global terms, concluded the environmental test segment of the programme (electromagnetic compatibility, acoustic and thermal vacuum tests).
During this period, the ATV was placed in an environment similar to that of its actual mission. It was subjected to vacuum and thermal cycling conditions under which all its equipment was tested successfully. The flight programme maintained the ATV equipment at continuous temperature levels in line with the specifications, guaranteeing its correct operation and performance. All results were as forecast. Nevertheless, a number of detailed operational tasks remain to be completed, before presentation to the Qualification Board which will begin its work during the first quarter of 2007.
This success is the result of a lengthy preparation process started over a year ago, and accelerated substantially during the last four months.
EADS Astrium teams have worked in shifts without interruption, round the clock and seven days a week throughout the test period, so as to be able to execute the scheduled test sequences, and be on hand if any non-conformances occur.
The next step in the preparation process for the Jules Verne ATV has begun. The task is now to validate the flight sequences in a closed loop configuration. During these tests, scheduled for the first quarter of 2007, the ATV will be connected to a simulator and operated from the Toulouse Control Centre. This will be the final test phase for the flight specimen before it is cleared for departure to Kourou.
EADS Astrium, a wholly owned subsidiary of EADS, is dedicated to providing civil and defence space systems. In 2005, EADS Astrium had a turnover of €2.7 billion and 11,000 employees in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain and the Netherlands. It has two main business units: Astrium Space Transportation, for launchers and orbital infrastructure, and Astrium Satellites for spacecraft and ground segment. Its wholly owned subsidiary, Astrium Services, develops and delivers satellite services.
EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2005, EADS generated revenues of €34.2 billion and employed a workforce of more than 113,000.
Contacts for the media:
EADS Astrium, Remi ROLAND +33 (0)1 42 24 27 34
EADS Astrium, Frédéric-Pierre ISOZ +33 (0) 1 42 24 28 77
EADS Astrium (UK), Jeremy CLOSE +44 (0)1438 77 38 72
http://www.space.eads.net
