Development and characterization of the ECLIPS space environments simulation facility

The Electrostatic Charging Laboratory for Interactions between Plasma and Spacecraft (ECLIPS) research vacuum chamber has recently been developed as part of the Autonomous Vehicle Systems at University Colorado Boulder. experimental spacecraft charging facility allows conducting experiments relevant to charged astrodynamics in a space-like environment. This paper discusses development, characterization, present capabilities chamber, which includes range sources provide electron, ion, photon fluxes, probes characterize electron x-rays, potentials, variety ancillary components ensure safe operation system, such 3-axis motion stages, magnetic environment control or residual gas analyzer, among others. state-of-the art used conduct on touchless potential sensing, electrostatic actuation, gun will continue be employed study future.