Abstract
The satellite LARES 2 is designed to test dragging of inertial frames, or frame-dragging, predicted by Einstein’s theory of General Relativity, with accuracy of a few parts in a thousand. For this purpose, besides the typical requirements for a space construction, a high density alloy must be used. In this paper are reported the studies performed on a nickel alloy, the Haynes 242, that is considered a possible candidate for manufacturing all the metallic parts of LARES 2 and other passive geodetic satellites. Haynes 242 density and mechanical properties are compliant with the requirements of the mission. Three different casting with the nominal composition of the alloy have been prepared and tested along with a commercial bar of Haynes 242. The results of tensile and hardness tests on several specimens with different aging time are reported, along with the relevant metallographic analysis. Furthermore, a test on the machinability, performed on a screw, which is the most demanding item from the manufacturing point of view, is reported.
Highlights
L ARES 2 is a satellite of the Italian Space Agency (ASI), designed to test the dragging of inertial frames [1], or framedragging, an intriguing phenomenon predicted by Einstein’s theory of General Relativity, with accuracy of a few parts in a thousand [2]
In this paper are reported the studies performed on a nickel alloy, the Haynes 242, that is considered a possible candidate for manufacturing all the metallic parts of LARES 2 and other passive geodetic satellites
The satellite is completely passive, and it behaves as a test particle in the gravitational field of the Earth. It is covered with Cube Corner Reflectors (CCRs) that reflect the laser pulses sent from the network of ground stations of the International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS)
Summary
L ARES 2 is a satellite of the Italian Space Agency (ASI), designed to test the dragging of inertial frames [1], or framedragging, an intriguing phenomenon predicted by Einstein’s theory of General Relativity, with accuracy of a few parts in a thousand [2]. In this paper are reported the studies performed on a nickel alloy, the Haynes 242, that is considered a possible candidate for manufacturing all the metallic parts of LARES 2 and other passive geodetic satellites. Three different casting with the nominal composition of the alloy have been prepared and tested along with a commercial bar of Haynes 242.
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