New Zealand, 6 Nov 2023. Zenith Tecnica, a world leader in titanium Electron Beam Melting (EBM) AKA Electron Powder-Bed Fusion (E-PBF) additive manufacturing (AM), is proud to announce the successful manufacture and delivery of critical titanium node components for the chassis of the Psyche Spacecraft launched on the 13th of October 2023.
Figure 1: The structure of Psyche SEP Chassis, including 3D printed titanium nodes interfacing between carbon composite tubes. Photo Courtesy NASA/JPL-Caltech.
After the successful launch, the spacecraft is now travelling to its namesake, the asteroid Psyche, a more than 2-billion-mile journey. The spacecraft will arrive in approximately 2029 and spend 26 months orbiting, mapping, and studying the asteroid.
Chosen by satellite manufacturer Maxar Space Systems, Zenith Tecnica manufactured and delivered node components that are vital in the structure of the Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) Chassis [pictured above]. The node components, designed by Maxar, were well suited to the advantages of EBM additive manufacturing (due to their complex geometries) and qualified with Maxar’s proven track record of utilizing truss-strut structures.
“The team at Zenith Tecnica is ecstatic to see the successful launch of Psyche and enjoyed working with the Maxar Space Systems’ engineering team on this project. We are proud to have played a small role in making this mission happen and wish the Psyche team all the best with the next phases of the mission.” – Peter Sefont, Technical Director Zenith Tecnica.
About Zenith Tecnica
Zenith Tecnica is an AS9100-certified contract manufacturer specialising in titanium 3D printing. Unlocking Electron Beam Melting for industries around the world, Zenith Tecnica offers customers a wealth of experience in additive manufacturing of titanium components with a supply chain ready to deliver high quality parts for assembly. For more information, visit zenithtecnica.com.
About Maxar Space Systems
Maxar Space Systems is a leading provider of comprehensive space technologies. We deliver innovative solutions to government and commercial customers helping them unlock the promise of space to solve problems on Earth and beyond. We address a broad spectrum of needs for our customers, including mission systems engineering, product design, spacecraft manufacturing, assembly, integration and testing. Maxar Space Systems is a trusted partner in commercial and government missions, combining more than 60 years of deep mission understanding with reliable performance and longevity. For more information, visit www.maxar.com
For media inquiries, please contact:
Morgan Worthington,
media@zenithtecnica.com
