The ESA satellite Plato passed electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests in ’s shielded Maxwell chamber. The measurement campaign revealed no relevant interference between instruments and radio links and completes the main pre- verifications.
Test objectives and procedure
The teams powered up and operated the onboard electronics remotely, as they will later do in . The focus was on possible interactions between instrument modules (crosstalk) and on the payload’s compatibility with the communications antennas. In addition, load scenarios were tested in which detectors and processors can generate higher emissions.
Why EMC is critical
In vacuum, electric fields behave differently than in laboratory environments. Without careful EMC testing, there is a risk of distorted measurements, malfunctions or damage. For Plato, which searches for exoplanets with sensitive photometers and studies stellar variability, interference-free signals and stable data links are essential.
The Maxwell chamber
The roughly nine-metre-high, metallically shielded chamber acts as a Faraday cage and blocks external fields. Foam-like absorbers prevent reflections of electromagnetic waves. This creates conditions that realistically reproduce free- propagation.
Results and significance
No relevant disturbances occurred during the tests; telemetry and data transmission remained stable. The systems’ EMC is therefore confirmed. This result allows the project to move into the final phase of preparations and avoids time-consuming rework that would have affected schedule and costs.
Next steps
Next are integration into the payload adapter, final system checks and transport to the launch site. Routine accompanying tests simulate the stresses during transport and handling. Laboratory tests cannot replace operation in space, but they significantly reduce the risk of unforeseen disturbances.
Assessment
With the successful EMC campaign, the conditions for precise observations have been improved. This should secure the quality of data on distant stars and potential exoplanets and increase the scientific return of the .