• Question: what mechanics go in to a satellite

    Asked by wych137jar on 1 Nov 2021.
    • Photo: Natasha Pushkin

      Natasha Pushkin answered on 7 Oct 2021:

      I’m not sure what you mean by mechanics. In the propulsion system we have valves that open/close to release fuel to the thrusters.

      In the satellite as a whole we have mechanisms that can move the antennas and the solar arrays.

    • Photo: Jodie Howlett

      Jodie Howlett answered on 20 Oct 2021:

      Great question! Mechanical parts are used in satellites that need to rotate their solar panels so they’re pointing to the Sun.

      Mechanical engineers also make sure the right materials are selected, so that the satellite doesn’t get damaged from all the vibrations when getting launched in the rocket.

      They also ensure that the materials selected can withstand the cold temperatures of space, as well as the heat from the Sun.

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