Industry Related News: United States – June, 2021:

NASA recently put their new Lunar IceCube satellite through an extensive round of thermal chamber testing at the Goddard Space Flight Center, located in Maryland. The cube was assembled at Morehead State University Space Center in Kentucky, built by over 60 students and faculty members. The IceCube will be used to investigate the presence of water on the Moon, both on its surface and within its exosphere (surrounding atmosphere-like area). The investigation will include extensive examination of the dynamics of water (and other similar substances), as well as thorough mapping. This information is critical for the future of space exploration and our understanding of the solar system as a whole. With this information, NASA hopes to pave the way towards establishing life on other planets, like Mars. This is why the craft recently underwent a series of important tests, including thermal chamber testing, which is critical for space travel.

The thermal chamber testing began with a thermal vacuum, a thermal chamber that completely removed the atmosphere from the area and exposed the IceCube to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. The IceCube passed this test, ensuring that it will survive its trip into space and be able to conduct research at the most extreme of temperatures. Despite this, some concerns remain that direct exposure to the sun could damage the IceCube over time. This is why the craft has a small door that will open and close to keep it safe during its time in space. With thermal testing complete, the craft is headed back to Morehead. There it will undergo further testing, as the importance of this mission cannot be understated. Once all testing is complete, the IceCube will be sent into space aboard the Artemis I, which will carry a crew to further aid in investigating the Moon. Advanced equipment and technology means that NASA will be able to better understand the Moon than ever before. Ultimately, the hope is that any new information could pave the way towards further exploration of the solar system – including planets like Mars, which NASA still has major gaps in knowledge. 

Thermal chamber testing is an essential process for all types of industries and could even allow humanity to establish life on other planets. A thermal chamber enabled NASA to test their spacecraft, but they also allow anybody to cycle their product/device through extreme temperatures. From automotive endeavors to the medical industry, thermal testing and cycling systems are instrumental to product success. From the Khoury Box to the ELI-1000 testing chamber, Khoury Industries offers a wide range of options to fit your exact needs. Contact us to find the best thermal testing device for you.

NASA, “Lunar IceCube Passes Critical Testing at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center” nasa.gov, June 8 2021, Accessed 14 June 2021.
NASA, “Lunar IceCube Mission to Locate, Study Resources Needed for Sustained Presence on Moon” nasa.gov, November 8 2021, Accessed 14 June 2021.

ABOUT KHOURY INDUSTRIES

Khoury Industries is a worldwide leader in temperature testing equipment for device characterization, thermal cycling equipment, and failure analysis. Khoury Industries designs and manufactures custom thermal testing chambers and microwave thermal testing fixtures used in a variety of industries including: military, space, automotive, medical, research, and communication fields. The Khoury Box and the patented ELI-1000 have quickly become industry favorites as thermal testing devices used to ensure the reliability of industrial and electronic products through prolonged exposure to extreme conditions.

For more information, contact:

Penny Aicardi
Khoury Industries
5 Mechanic Street
Bellingham, MA 02019
[email protected]