Product category:
Calibration and Laboratory Instruments
News Release from: Flir Systems | Subject: ThermaCAM
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 04 July 2006
Purpose built infrared cameras for space
shuttle
Naturally, there is a high requirement for purpose-built instrumentation on board the Space Shuttle.
Naturally, there is a high requirement for purpose-built instrumentation on board the Space Shuttle However with some modification a few off-the-shelf products are considered to be sufficiently stable and robust enough for use in space
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 6 Jun 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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One of these is the FLIR Systems ThermaCAM.
A key factor is the ability of the infrared camera to operate effectively in both high and low temperatures.
This ThermaCAM, a version of FLIR Systems standard S65 research model, has a range of -40deg C to +2000deg C.
The first Shuttle ThermaCAM earned it stripes on the initial STS-114 Shuttle flight and was subsequently transferred to the International Space Station.
Its role was to inspect the reinforced carbon-carbon (RCC) tiles on the leading edges of the Shuttle in the event of damage.
Thankfully its services were not required.
Four of these modified S Series ThermaCAM infrared cameras have been built by FLIR Systems for the current Space Programme, one for each Shuttle flight.
The enhancements basically address the problems of mechanical kickload, radiation, fire hazard, shock and vibration.
Providing the crew with an EVA-friendly interface was another important consideration.
For EVAs or space-walks, the camera was redesigned so that the backlight display of the LCD did not require a high voltage fluorescent tube that could present a corona hazard.
Camera two will be in the cargo bay of Atlantis for the launch of the next Shuttle mission, STS-121, scheduled for take-off on 1st July 2006.
It is accompanied on the flight by a selection of damaged 6m x 6m tiles.
Once in space, crew members Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum will use the ThermaCAM to image two of the RCC tile samples to verify the inspection technique.
This camera will then join the first on the International Space Station, both returning to earth on STS-115, the third flight.
It is currently envisaged that the cameras will be used inside the International Space Station with the principle aim of demonstrating the ability of the ThermaCAM to operate effectively in space and download recorded images.
Ultimately the cameras are expected to be used for leak detection for instrument and machinery inspection as part of the condition monitoring programme. Request a free brochure from Flir Systems ...
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