CHIME given the shakes
A model of the CHIME instrument has recently undergone rigorous testing to confirm it can endure the stresses of launch and the harsh conditions of space. This new Copernicus mission will provide critical data to support sustainable agriculture, and more.
The rising global population and accelerating effects of climate change are intensifying threats to food security. To help address this major issue, ESA is developing CHIME, which stands for the Copernicus Hyperspectral Imaging Mission for the Environment.
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This new satellite will carry a unique visible to shortwave-infrared imaging spectrometer to return spectroscopic measurements to support new and enhanced services for sustainable agricultural and biodiversity management, as well to characterise soil properties, which is key to vegetation health.
As part of the development process, a model of this critical instrument has undergone rigorous testing at IAGB’s facilities in Germany to verify its thermal and structural integrity, ensuring it can endure the challenges of liftoff and the harsh conditions of life in orbit.
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These essential tests involved placing the instrument in a vacuum chamber and subjecting it to extreme temperature fluctuations, verifying that its weight and centre of mass align with design specifications, and mounting it on a shaker to confirm its resilience against the intense vibrations and noise it will encounter during launch.
Jens Nieke, ESA’s CHIME Project Manager, said, “We are very happy to say that the tests went very well, and the CHIME instrument model came through with flying colours. Our thanks go to all the teams involved.
“These tests allow us to move forward with the mission development with the knowledge that this remarkable instrument is sturdy enough to withstand the eventual launch and life in space.”
