An Overview of the PPF/ENVISAT-1 Structural Qualification Programme.

The earth observation satellite PPF / ENVISAT-1 is the first spacecraft making use of the European Polar Platform. Its size (10 m height and 8000 kg mass in launch configuration) and the fact that it will be placed in orbit by a newly developed launcher (Ariane 5) result in various challenges, particularly in the field of mechanical verification. This paper presents an overview of the system level test activities conducted on the PPF / ENVISAT-1 Structural Model under the leadership of the Polar Platform Prime Contractor MMS(Bristol). It also describes the facility aspects associated with these tests.