NDE in space

It is suggested that nondestructive evaluation (NDE) technology could become a vital element in enabling space system construction and in-space systems operations to meet reliability requirements. Among other NDE technologies, ultrasonic/acoustic NDE and smart sensor methods represent key elements of in-process, postprocess, and prelaunch qualification testing of components or structures. These methods can be extended to future in-space NDE service, including the emerging technology of smart sensors for continuous system self-diagnosis and health monitoring.<<ETX>>