Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Larkin, Paul A..
The prototype flight structural design and verification concept developed for TOPEX/Poseidon is presented. The structural configuration, design requirements, verification plan, analysis, and system level testing are described. The principal goal of the mission is to observe and measure ocean currents via radio altimetry, for enhanced knowledge of the interaction between the atmosphere and ocean.
The Topex/Poseidon satellite's structural development approach adhered to more stringent requirements than previous efforts, since this spacecraft must withstand not only launch/flight loads but also those planned for the 'protoflight' vehicle's structural and environmental tests. There requirements encompassed conservatively estimated design loads, high safety factors, and extensive analytical simulations. The structural adequacy of the satellite was verified by means of a ground testing program to comply with both JPL institutional requirements and Arianespace requirements. Modal survey tests of the satellite have been successfully completed.