Development of a Payload Adapter for Satellite Missions Launched Using ICBM-Derived Launch Vehicles

The proposed program addresses the development, manufacture and testing of a lightweight payload adapter able to accommodate a wide range of satellite geometries. An innovative design concept was developed for this purpose in Phase I of the program. Thisdesign consists of a graphite epoxy/honeycomb core laminate formed into an essentially flat disk. A single primary payload would be attached directly to the disk whereas a pedestal is required for the use of multiple secondary payloads. The design of thedisk is tuned so that the modal frequencies of the system achieve a high level of payload vibration isolation. This innovation reduces cost and part count and greatly facilitates the manufacturing process while meeting challenging structural requirementswithout resorting to unproven and difficult-to-obtain materials. The design also uses constrained layer damping to reduce vibration levels during the sine-sweep testing that would simulate the severe resonant burn condition of the PeaceKeeper rocketstages. A full-scale engineering design unit will be manufactured and tested exhaustively to confirm adequate static and dynamic strength performance as well as demonstrate the superior isolation characteristics being provided for sensitive and fragilepayloads.