MPE Hardware, Volume, and Interface
The MPE carrier system is defined as the MPE structure and the attached payloads.
MPE Structure
MPE Volume and Mass
Any of the three MPE configurations with attached payloads must fit within the DARPA Falcon payload envelope. Payload measurements do not include the height of the clamp band separation system. The payload mating plane to the clamp band is considered to be the interface plane.
| Diameter | 60 inches |
| Height | 40 inches |
| Classification | Single Segment | Double Segment |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | 40 inch diameter 34 inch height |
40 inch diameter 12 inch height* |
| Secondary | 20 inch width 19 inch length 16.93 inch maximum radius height |
20 inch width 19 inch length 16.93 inch maximum radius height |
| Tertiary | No slot | Determined by the 40 inch diameter and flange cover of Segment #2 |
*Note: In a double segment, the primary payload may negotiate use of additional volume below the top-mating surface of the 15 inch separation system.
MPE Payload Separation/Interface System
The MPE structure is designed to accommodate a 15 inch diameter separation system. Adapter plates may be used to accommodate payload separation systems that differ from this interface.
Electrical Interface Connection
A 15 pin zero-force D-sub connector is required for battery charging and telemetry verification of breakwire separation of the payload. The MPE connector is male or female.
Please refer to the User Handbook for details on electrical accommodations and connector pin-out tables.
MPE
- NASA Official: Barbara J. Justis
- Curator: Brandon Wright
- Last Updated: December 07 2005