Precision is important

Hispasat-AG1's Europe reflector antenna mounted on ground segment equipment in preparation for acoustic tests in the Large European Acoustic Facility (LEAF), at ESA's test centre in Noordwijk, the Netherlands.

The LEAF, measuring 11 x 9 x 16.4 m, simulates realistic spectral noise pressure levels comparable to those generated by the launcher engines and air flow passing along the launcher fairing. The noise generation system consists of four different horns with cut-off frequencies of 25 Hz, 35 Hz, 80 Hz and 160 Hz plus three high-frequency generators.

European Test Services operates ESTEC's Test Centre.