Design and performance verification of space grade multi-output medium power, electronic power conditioner under thermo-vacuum environment

Space grade subsystems require judicious combination of design, analysis and testing to realize a flight worthy hardware. These subsystems operate in an environment considerably different from that in which they are built and after launch they are inaccessible to routine maintenance and repair. The thermal vacuum test is one of the most critical environmental tests. This paper presents the design considerations for realizing a space grade Electronic Power Conditioner (EPC) from its thermal and vacuum performance perspective. Comparison is made between the results of the thermal analysis and actual test under vacuum conditions. Design margins are also established to achieve the onboard performance of the EPC under vacuum in geo-stationary environment for a product life of 15 years.