Electromagnetic characterization of planetary protection covers against biological and environmental contamination for EMC tests

Abstract

Qualification tests for space equipment and systems related to ECSS-E-ST-10-03C standard include, among others, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests, that must be performed under planetary mission protection and cleanliness requirements, as well as integration and validation. Thus, all of them must be conducted under clean conditions. In consequence, it is necessary to use a protection cover that does not affect EMC tests, allowing the cleaning requirements to be met. This article focuses on the evaluation of the influence of these protection covers on the EMC tests and paves the way to investigate new geometries and materials that improve the final performance of covers, including selection of the material, development and manufacture of the cover and its electromagnetic characterization.