Test program review

Abstract

This paper provides a review of test program requirements and operations applicable to space instruments systems. The Apollo Lunar Surface Experiment Package (ALSEP) test program is summarized and then evaluated in terms of performance vs overall effectiveness in Section 2. Section 3 discusses the basic requirements for the definition of typical space instrument verification activities and indicates tradeoffs to be considered in the analysis and planning stages, and in the test operations phases of hardware development. In the final section, three classes of payloads are defined and verification tasks and documentation requirements are evaluated for these payloads in terms of cost effective program implementation. ALSEP is used in this case study as typical of the most critical payload for high reliability performance and life.