The demands on space simulation chambers from the extremes of temperature and vacuum were discussed in Part One along with the development of space simulation chambers (aka space simulators) for testing of components used on vehicles for space travel such as sensors, landers and ion thrusters (Fig. 1) under the same conditions they will encounter during deployment in space. We continue this discussion by exploring the vacuum systems used to make these chambers function properly.
There is a wide range of commercially available space chambers, from small 460 mm diameter x 610 mm long (18” diameter x 24” long) units, to field-erected systems large enough to enclose a satellite, rocket section or space telescope. These large units can be 15.2 m (50 ft.) or more in diameter.