SDL's comprehensive, modern machine shop performs most non-optical fabrication in-house. It provides computer numeric control (CNC) machine capability and computer-aided precision machining (CAM).

Twenty-four dedicated laboratory areas (nearly 65,000 square feet) are available at SDL for thermal analysis and modeling, and electronic, optical, and mechanical assembly and testing. SDL also houses a space simulation laboratory including a small-satellite attitude control system test facility. A class-100,000 high bay supports the use of portable clean tents and high capacity cranes. It has been used as a payload integration facility and offers spacecraft bus checkout capabilities.

Electronics fabrication
SDL's NASA-certified surface mount technology and vapor phase soldering facilities enable state-of-the-art design and production. Composite fabrication and testing are also supported, complete with vacuum bagging and full, high-pressure, autoclave curing.

Environmental testing
SDL's environmental testing facility includes a vibration and shock table, crane, dynamic spin balancing facility, and several cold-wall (LN2) thermal vacuum chambers (including a hard space vacuum) for component testing.

Related Information

Fabrication Facilities