Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) are a type of measurement system used to assess the maturity level of a particular technology. Each technology project is evaluated against the parameters for each technology level and is then assigned a TRL rating based on the projects progress. There are nine technology readiness levels. TRL 1 is the lowest and TRL 9 is the highest.

To learn more about TRL please visit the officinal NASA webpage here.

The ABBESS TVAC is a state-of-the-art tool designed to simulate the harsh conditions of space. With its advanced specifications, it can achieve temperatures ranging from a chilling -80°C to a scorching 200°C. Boasting an effective volume of 1m³, it provides ample space for various test items. Furthermore, its multiple ports enable seamless interfacing with a variety of devices and sensors, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of experimental requirements.

Our facility is equipped with the Dynamic Solutions DS-1300VH-9 vibration shaker, a reliable tool for diverse testing needs. It can handle payloads up to 660 lbs and offers accelerations of up to 100G. With a usable frequency range of 5-4000Hz, it's versatile for various test scenarios. The shaker provides a maximum sine force of 1500 lbs, a random force of 1320 lbs, and a shock force of 3000 lbs at 6ms. It's a dependable instrument for evaluating equipment resilience.

Thorlabs' optical tables are designed as a solid foundation for high-precision systems and sensitive experiments. Specifically, the Nexus optical tables excel in dampening vibrations across a wide range of frequencies, ensuring stability for each individual table. These tables maintain a flatness within ±0.1 mm, and their all-steel build effectively reduces the thermal drift often seen from mismatched thermal expansion coefficients. Internally, a continuous honeycomb core gives them the rigidity to counteract surface bowing under load. In our facility, these tables play a pivotal role in camera calibration, optics alignment, and the assembly of delicate hardware.

Our facility features a Class 10,000 clean room that provides a controlled environment suitable for delicate operations. This space is designed to limit airborne particles to no more than 10,000 per cubic foot, ensuring a relatively sterile setting. Equipped with efficient filtration systems and guided by established protocols, it's an ideal space for spacecraft assembly. Additionally, the clean room is used for other tasks that benefit from a reduced-contaminant environment.

The ETS-Lindgren Far-Field Antenna Anechoic Chamber, measuring 12 feet by 12 feet by 24 feet, is designed for accurate antenna and RF measurements up to 20 GHz. Its anechoic properties minimize internal reflections, providing a controlled environment for capturing consistent antenna characteristics. With a focus on reducing interference and external noise, the chamber ensures precise data acquisition for a range of testing requirements. The use of this facility is in partnership with the WiDE lab.