High resolution standard proximity sensor

The high‐resolution standard proximity sensor (HRSPS) is a true contact‐less eddy current displacement measuring system qualified for high‐reliability satellite applications. It is also available in an 883B flight version for micro‐gravity and for the International Space Station (ISS). Three different sensor sizes covering three measuring ranges up to 9 mm (0.35 in.) are available. The HRSPS offers either two independent single or one differential output(s) with a resolution of 1 nm. The temperature range for standard space flight is −55‐70°C but the sensors have provision for operation to −150°C (−238°F) for mission to Mars. The reliability figures of the HRSPS are 1.7 million hours for ISS applications and 2.5 million hours for the satellite version. It is operating under +28 V DC (with fuse) 2 W or ±15 V DC 1.5 W. The power consumption in the sensor head is below 15 mW. This paper presents the test results and the final confirmation of the performances of the HRSPS. The HRSPS should become the standard nano‐measuring system qualified for space mechanisms operating in closed loop control. It is designed in order to accept the worst launcher environment.