Structural Models and Dynamic Measurements of Satellite Launch Adapter Structures

CASPAR, the Composite Adapter for Shared Payload Rides, is a Multi-Payload Adapter (MPA) with whole-spacecraft vibration isolation that was developed for the Minotaur IV Launch Vehicle. The CASPAR MPA can accommodate two 1500-lb satellites or four 400-lb satellites on a Minotaur IV launch. The CASPAR ShockRing is a satellite vibration-isolation system that has the form of a shock isolator with the functional capability to mitigate both vibration and shock loads. Both of these CASPAR structures were flight-qualified by test in 2008. Dynamic measurements of the MPA and the ShockRing, before and after testing, validated the models and the qualification of both structures. This paper documents finite element models and dynamic measurements of the CASPAR MPA and ShockRing structures. A brief summary of the qualification tests for both structures is included.