MSFC Data Analysis of the SAFE/DAE Experiment

Abstract

The Solar Array Flight Experiment (SAFE) on-orbit experiment for measurement of large structures dynamics consists of a dynamic sensing system designed to record and analyze the dynamic characteristics of the SAFE. The early availability of the SAFE and its basic large space structure characteristics made it a logical candidate for verification of the sensing system and evaluation technique. The characteristics of the solar array which place it well within the generic class of large space structures are: (1) Large size; (2) Low natural frequencies; (3) Mechanical complexity of its extendable/retractable mast; and (4) The inability to dynamic test in Earth atmosphere and one g.