The purpose of the study is to investigate the use of ASTs as sensors in modern AOCS. Relatively recently ASTs have developed into a mature technology offering high-performance autonomous attitude determination in relatively small packages.

The investigations into using ASTs used two different types of mission for reference. A large, high- performance scientific mission XMM, as one, and a typical geostationary telecoms mission as the other. Using baseline specifications for ASTs (AD(2) & AD(3)) the studies were performed with focus upon different aspects including:

Manned missions into space require systems for Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS). The major tasks of these systems are the control of the habitable volume atmosphere in which the astronauts shall feel themselves comfortable. Essential functions are to control cabin temperature and humidity. For these functions a Membrane-based Condensing Heat Exchanger (MCHX) Technology Demonstrator was developed and performance tested.