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At Electromate, we provide cutting-edge mechatronic systems designed for use in space applications. Partnering with trusted manufacturers like maxon, we deliver solutions engineered to thrive in the harshest conditions, from the Earth’s atmosphere to the depths of space.
Whether it's enabling the precise movements of a robotic arm on a satellite, powering exploration vehicles on distant planets, or maintaining reliable operations in communication satellites, the mechatronic systems we provide are at the forefront of space innovation.
Every system is designed to meet the stringent requirements of space missions, including resistance to extreme temperature fluctuations, radiation, and the vacuum of space. These solutions not only support critical exploration missions but also contribute to advancements in communication, navigation, and scientific research, helping humanity push the boundaries of what is possible beyond our planet.
Space Subsystem/Component Providers:
maxon Space
maxon has been a trusted name in the aerospace industry for decades, developing precision motors and drive systems that have powered numerous space missions, including the Mars rovers.
Their components are specifically designed to withstand the rigors of space, offering unparalleled performance in environments characterized by zero gravity, extreme temperatures, and high radiation levels.
With a legacy of reliability and innovation, maxon’s products are integral to critical functions such as robotic arms, instruments, and propulsion systems, ensuring mission success even in the most unforgiving conditions.
Netzer Precision is another key contributor to space applications, offering advanced capacitive encoders that deliver exceptional performance under the unique conditions of space. These encoders are highly resistant to radiation, operate flawlessly in extreme temperatures, and are unaffected by the vacuum environment.
Their lightweight and compact designs make them ideal for integration into spacecraft and satellites, ensuring precise positioning and control for critical components. Netzer’s technology has been instrumental in enabling reliable performance for applications such as telescopes, satellite antennas, and robotic systems in orbit and beyond.
Explore Space and Other Worlds with Kollmorgen’s Space-Worthy Motors.
While the commercialization of space using low Earth orbit satellites is entering a period of exponential growth, the deeper exploration of space with crewed and uncrewed spacecraft, orbiting stations and rockets transporting items to space, is undergoing a new renaissance.
maxon motor DC motors drive the Mars rovers and have been operating on Mars for more than ten years. For helicopters, passenger planes, or spacecraft, we offer customized precision and a vast support network that guarantees high standards.
Nanosatellites like those developed by Clyde Space, a Scottish company, depend on brushless DC motors for aerospace from maxon motor. Nanosatellites, also known as CubeSats, are miniaturized satellites that are used primarily for space research. At 10 x 10 x 10 cm big and less than 1 kg in weight, these cost-effective miniature satellites have many applications within space research.
Research on Mars has advanced tremendously in the last 20+ years. Precision drives by maxon motors have made an important contribution in these advancements. In four missions by the US space authority NASA, products of the Swiss company have reached the surface of Mars. Data collected during these projects, in part thanks to maxon motors for Mars rovers, bring us closer to the goal of a manned mission to Mars. maxon motor DC motors drive the Mars rovers and have been operating on Mars for more than ten years. For helicopters, passenger planes, or spacecraft, we offer customized precision and a vast support network that guarantees high standards.
Space missions must navigate several atmospheric layers before reaching the vacuum of space. These layers include:
Troposphere: Extending up to 12 km, this layer contains the bulk of Earth’s weather phenomena.
Stratosphere: Spanning 12 to 50 km, the stratosphere is home to the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful UV radiation.
Mesosphere: Ranging from 50 to 85 km, this is where meteors often burn up upon entry.
Thermosphere: Extending from 85 to 600 km, this layer features thin air and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Exosphere: The outermost layer, beginning around 600 km and fading into the vacuum of space.
Where Does Space Begin?
The widely recognized boundary of space is the Kármán Line, located at an altitude of 100 km (62 miles) above sea level. This point is considered the edge of space, where atmospheric density becomes negligible, and aerodynamic lift gives way to orbital dynamics.
Operating Conditions in the Vacuum of Space
Mechatronic systems designed for space must contend with a range of challenging environmental conditions, including:
Extreme Temperatures: Spacecraft components face intense thermal cycling, ranging from -150°C to over 120°C depending on exposure to sunlight or shadow.
Radiation Exposure: High levels of solar and cosmic radiation can degrade materials and electronics.
Outgassing: Materials must be selected to minimize the release of gases in the vacuum, which can compromise sensitive instruments.
Micrometeoroid Impacts: Systems must be robust enough to withstand collisions with tiny debris traveling at high speeds.
Zero Gravity: Components must function reliably without the influence of gravity, requiring innovative design.
Low Vacuum vs. High Vacuum
The term "vacuum" in space refers to areas where pressure is significantly lower than on Earth. The difference between low and high vacuum is defined by pressure levels:
Low Vacuum: Found in the upper layers of the atmosphere, this environment still contains measurable amounts of air molecules.
High Vacuum: Characteristic of deep space, where molecular density is nearly zero, creating an almost perfect vacuum. High vacuum conditions demand exceptional material and system designs to prevent failures due to outgassing, thermal stress, and pressure differentials.
Why Choose Electromate for Space Applications?
With exclusive access to industry-leading components from manufacturers like maxon, we deliver customizable solutions optimized for the unique demands of space. Our systems integrate seamlessly into satellites, rovers, and other spacecraft, offering unmatched reliability and performance.
Let us help power your next mission. Contact us today to learn more about our space-ready mechatronic solutions.
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