MISSION: Space Junk Specifications

Test Rig


The following is a description of some key features of The Tech Challenge 2010.

These drawings depict this year's test rig in greater detail:

Satellite Drawing Test Rig Layout

The Test Platform
You will be getting an inoperative satellite to burn up upon re-entry by attaching two Hall Thrusters to its thruster docking ports - and it must be done from the deck of your temporary home - The International Space Station.

  • You'll be 10' away from the Satellite on your 6'x10' section of the ISS.
  • The Satellite is floating 6' in the air and it is moving.
  • You will have 3 minutes to place 2 thrusters on one end of the satellite AND if you drop a thruster you'll be adding to the vast amount of Space Junk currently orbiting the Earth and you will lose points - so accuracy is a MUST!

Test Platform Variation
On the event day, there will be multiple test platforms in use. Every effort will be made to ensure uniformity between the stations and the satellite. However, small variations are to be expected in construction and the initial orientation of the satellite at the start of the run. A robust device that has been tested repeatedly should be able to handle any small differences that may occur.

A sample test rig platform is already available for viewing in the museum, at the Information Clinic and for testing your team's device at the Challenge Trials.

NOTE: There is no guarantee as to the location of Thruster Ports on your particular Satellite on the day of the event or the Test Trials - so test your device accordingly!

Spectator viewing
All spectators, advisors, and family members may stand and observe the device operation outside of the testing space.

Home Testing Hints
It is not necessary to build a Satellite - but feel free if you have the time and space! You will be able to get the same results by hanging it anywhere - as long as it has room to move freely.

How to Build Your Own Satellite

  • The height of test rig should be 6' from the bottom of the Satellite to the ground when level.
  • With string and chalk, draw a rectangle or just a line that is equivalent to the distance of the ISS Platform to the Satellite - which is 10'. A couple of other tips to keep in mind.
  • Looking to buy a bucket to represent the satellite? OSH has a bucket that we recommend: SCU # 6613905.

In addition to testing at home, we recommend testing devices on the official rig at the Challenge Trials which are at The Tech Museum . There are quite a few dates to choose from beginning in early 2010 - plan on coming and testing out your device more than once!