13 March 2006 - Last month the so-called qualification static load testing of Vega IS1/2 was successfully completed. The Vega interstage 1/2 - designed and manufactured by Dutch Space - is part of the of ESA'a small launcher Vega for which ELV is Industrial Architect and Prime Contractor. Qualification testing was carried out at TNO Environment and Geosciences facilities in Delft.
With these tests, loads were applied representing launcher thrustforces up to yield and ultimate levels. No major technical problems were encountered during assembly of the test article and preliminary evaluation of the qualification test results shows that all stiffness and strength requirements are satisfied. The test article still stands at TNO, waiting for the final test, the test to failure. Then will be known just how strong the Interstage1/2 really is.
The Interstage1/2 is assembled by Dutch Space in Leiden where also the equipments, cable harnesses and thermal protection are integrated, so that it can be shipped directly to Kourou as a complete integrated sub-system.
