Innovating Joint DLR/NASA Flying Observatory Using SOLIDWORKS Research Edition
Company Size
1,000+
Region
- America
- Europe
Country
- Germany
- United States
Product
- SOLIDWORKS Research Edition
Tech Stack
- SOLIDWORKS Simulation
- SOLIDWORKS Modeling
Implementation Scale
- Enterprise-wide Deployment
Impact Metrics
- Customer Satisfaction
- Innovation Output
- Productivity Improvements
Technology Category
- Analytics & Modeling - Predictive Analytics
- Functional Applications - Remote Monitoring & Control Systems
Applicable Industries
- Aerospace
- Education
Applicable Functions
- Product Research & Development
- Quality Assurance
Use Cases
- Digital Twin
- Predictive Maintenance
- Remote Asset Management
Services
- Software Design & Engineering Services
- System Integration
About The Customer
The Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) is a unique flying observatory developed through a partnership between the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and NASA. It is a refurbished Boeing 747 SP aircraft equipped with a 2.7-meter infrared telescope, allowing scientists to observe the infrared spectrum of light from the stratosphere. The German SOFIA Institute (DSI) at the University of Stuttgart and the Universities Space Research Association (USRA) in the United States coordinate its scientific operations. The project involves a consortium of German industry for the telescope's design and manufacturing, while NASA handles aircraft modifications, telescope installation, and operations. SOFIA's key advantage is its ability to position itself at precise locations to observe rare celestial events, providing a unique platform for astronomical research.
The Challenge
Develop and optimize telescope stabilization, a tracking camera, and interface systems for the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), a flying observatory. The challenge was to create a system that could operate effectively in the stratosphere, where conditions are harsh and the need for precise stabilization is critical. The team needed to standardize on a common 3D design platform to facilitate collaboration and development, especially given the involvement of multiple disciplines and international partners.
The Solution
The SOFIA development team utilized SOLIDWORKS Research Edition software as the primary platform for designing and optimizing the telescope stabilization, tracking camera, and interface systems. The software's ease of use and integrated simulation tools made it an ideal choice for the project. The team used SOLIDWORKS modeling software to design various assemblies and components required to stabilize the telescope and tracking cameras during flight. They also leveraged SOLIDWORKS Simulation tools to validate and optimize design performance in the challenging operating environment of a moving aircraft in the stratosphere. The advanced design visualization capabilities in SOLIDWORKS facilitated communication across different disciplines involved in the project, including electronics, software, and optics development.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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