NASA deploys MicroStrain wireless sensor network for noise safety

August 29, 2011 — MicroStrain Inc. provided NASA Kennedy Space Center with wireless sensor technology to remotely monitor lift-off acoustics and vibration generated during the launch of both Endeavour and Atlantis space shuttles.

Noise generated by rocket exhaust can impact spacecraft, ground facilities and hazardous equipment.

MicroStrain’s wireless network was comprised of multiple G-Link accelerometers, a SG-Link strain node, a wireless sensor data aggregator (WSDA), and SensorCloud web-based data management platform. MicroStrain sensors gathered data, which was then used in corroborating prediction models.

NASA engineers Rudy Werlink and Ravi Margasahayam quantified the acoustic levels generated by spacecraft launches at a distance just over one mile from launch site. Engineers were able to validate math models for far-field acoustics. The project aims to improve safety and reliability, ensuring equipment and structures are maintained safely, said NASA’s Margasahayam. The test data is key to study the safety and operational readiness and/or to predict impending failure of ground structures, spacecraft, and equipment.

MicroStrain’s wireless systems provided a solution for many of the unique NASA test parameters. Unable to access the test site 48 hours prior to launch, the system was required to operate during this period in anticipation of launch. The result yielded over 3 gigabytes of data. By leveraging the remote data visualization and management tool, SensorCloud, MicroStrain support engineers assisted NASA to isolate and interpret launch event data.

MicroStrain Inc. makes micro sensors that are used in a wide range of applications. Learn more at http://www.microstrain.com/.

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