NASA has successfully conducted a critical spin test on the Outer Barrel Assembly of the Roman Space Telescope, a key component designed to withstand the gravitational forces encountered during launch. This test, performed in a large centrifuge, simulates the elevated gravity conditions that will be experienced in space missions.
The Roman Space Telescope, named after NASA's first chief astronomer Nancy Grace Roman, boasts a field of view 100 times larger than that of the Hubble Space Telescope. It aims to directly observe exoplanets and planet-forming disks, as well as conduct a census of planetary systems in our galaxy, contributing to our understanding of dark energy and infrared astrophysics. Julie McEnery, Roman's senior project scientist, noted the potential for discovering previously unknown celestial objects.
The Outer Barrel Assembly serves as a protective structure for the telescope, designed with a shell and connecting ring to shield it from stray light and maintain a consistent temperature. This temperature stability is essential to prevent misalignment of the telescope's mirrors, which could compromise its imaging capabilities. The assembly is constructed from a composite material of carbon fibers and reinforced plastic, ensuring both strength and lightness.
Standing 17 feet tall and 13.5 feet wide, the assembly connects to the spacecraft that will transport the telescope into orbit. Due to its size, NASA tested the 'house' and 'stilts' of the assembly separately in the centrifuge, which features a steel arm capable of simulating artificial gravity up to 7Gs.
Following successful testing, NASA plans to integrate the Outer Barrel Assembly with the telescope's solar panels and Deployable Aperture Cover by the end of this year. The fully assembled components will undergo thermal vacuum and vibration testing next year, ahead of the planned launch in May 2027. Scientists anticipate that the Roman survey will yield a wealth of data for astronomers, opening new avenues for cosmic exploration.