Hoare Lea, part of the Tetra Tech High Performance Buildings Group, provided acoustics, security, sustainability, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling, fire engineering, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) services for the UK National Satellite Test Facility (NSTF).
The facility is used to measure a satellite’s mass properties to ensure that it is consistent with its design parameters.
Challenge
The challenge was to strengthen the UK’s position at the forefront of the space industry with two bespoke facilities. The site’s sheer size, scale, and supreme level of environmental control means the chaos and challenges of space can be recreated right here on Earth.
Solution
Our science and research team worked closely with the client to resolve the unique challenges of this complex project by drawing on multidiscipline knowledge. Vibration and acoustic testing, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), center of gravity testing, and pyroshock simulation are all independently contained, which means two satellites can be tested in parallel.
Benefits
The NSTF is the new giant of our UK space ecosystem, significantly strengthening the UK’s position at the forefront of the industry. The result is a pioneering state-of-the-art facility.
At a glance
Client
National Satellite Test Facility
Architect
Harwell
Completion date
2022
Services
Acoustics, security, sustainability consulting, CFD modeling, fire engineering, mechanical, electrical, plumbing
Project by
Hoare Lea