How vacuum technology enables progress in spaceflight

Abstract

SummaryThe use of spacecraft in space research is based on completely different environmental conditions than here on Earth. In addition to the decreasing gravity and the enormous temperature differences, the vacuum in space must also be taken into account. Since the function, e.g. of the thrusters, under these environmental conditions cannot be simulated with mathematical calculations alone, real tests have to be carried out. Vacuum technology plays an important role here. To maintain the pressure level at the desired value, the vacuum system must extract the exhaust gases from the rocket engine and compress them against atmospheric pressure. In this article, a real project and how Pfeiffer Vacuum experts worked with the customer to develop a solution based on a three‐stage Roots pumping system is described. Both the challenges and the solutions during the development process are highlighted.