Research on the structural dynamics verification of flexible spacecraft

Langley spacecraft structural dynamics research based on a broad range of experimental and analytical studies, which contributed to the technology base for designing and building advanced spacecraft structures, is reviewed. It is concluded that considerable progress has been made toward developing the scale model technology for validating mathematical models used to predict the on-orbit dynamic behavior of spacecraft structures. Advanced suspension systems for testing models of spacecraft as well as feasibility of using modal data to detect damage in truss-type structures were demonstrated.