Electrical laboratories
The word avionics is a contraction of 'aviation electronics', referring to the data handling sub-system, guidance navigation and control devices and associated software flown aboard a satellite.
These facilities focus on assessing the performance of antennas and support testing across the entire spectrum of antenna development: from characterising the properties of the materials to the validation of full-scale radiating systems
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Laboratory
The EMC laboratory comprises several facilities dedicated to characterise magnetic properties of parts and ensure different electrical systems can operate together without interference.
The Navigation laboratory (NavLab) is an ensemble of multiple facilities located in ESTEC premises, belonging to the Radio Frequency Systems Division within the TEC Directorate.
Satellite systems rely on electricity to keep operational, but their power subsystems require careful design and management. The level of power produced by solar arrays – the dominant electricity source for almost all missions – varies greatly over time depending on satellite and planetary motion and short- and long-term space environment effects.
ESA maintains a Europe-wide network of specialized laboratories supplementing the technical services and competence provided by the ESTEC laboratories and the ESTEC Test Centre.
