EMC test campaign on VEGA C launcher upper stage

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) test campaign carried out in the EMC Area of Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA) [1] of the fourth stage of the European VEGA-C launcher of the European Space Agency. This is a new launcher version which maiden flight is planned for 2020. It is an evolutionary development of its predecessor VEGA launcher, with larger Payload mass launch capability in Low Earth Orbit. The requirements for the EMC testing in space engineering are included in ECSS-E-ST-E-20-07C rev. 1 standard [2] but they usually must be adapted to each mission or project, as the requirements and electromagnetic environment are unique for each of them. This implies an intensive engineering analysis to develop the test specification and run the qualification EMC test campaign. The main characteristics of the radiated and conducted EMC tests carried out under INTA's responsibility are shown, focusing on the main challenges encountered and the way to sort them out. They are not only related to EMC requirements of the project, but also to the inherent difficulties in the management and handle of a large dimensions and complex system such as a launcher's upper stage.