Thermal vacuum testing course for satellites
About our
The Thermal Vacuum Testing for Satellites course focuses on simulating the space environment through thermal vacuum testing. It covers the design and execution of critical tests to validate satellite performance and reliability under extreme temperature and vacuum conditions. Specialized techniques and equipment are used to simulate the space environment, evaluating the behavior of satellite components and systems under thermal stress and outgassing. Participants are prepared for roles in test engineering and satellite integration, ensuring the viability of space missions. The course provides hands-on experience in the use of thermal vacuum chambers and control systems, as well as in the interpretation of test data, using sensors and thermal analysis software. It covers the design of test protocols, the management of test data, and the identification of potential faults, under standards such as ECSS. The training prepares professionals as test engineers, satellite technicians, and project managers, improving opportunities in the space industry.
Thermal vacuum testing course for satellites
- Format: Hybrid
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours: 300 H
- Language: English / Spanish
- Registration date: 23-10-2026
- Start date: 12-12-2026
- Available places: 3
750 $
Competencies and results
What you will learn
1. Fundamentals and Application of Thermal-Vacuum Testing in Satellites
- Principles of thermal vacuum testing and its importance in satellite engineering.
- Design and construction of thermal vacuum chambers.
- Thermal vacuum testing procedures: configuration, execution, and parameter control.
- Heat transfer analysis in vacuum environments and its impact on satellite components.
- Numerical simulation of thermal vacuum testing: tools and techniques.
- Interpretation of results and analysis of thermal vacuum testing data.
- Identification and resolution of common problems in satellite testing.
- Specific applications of thermal vacuum testing: electronic components, structures, and mechanisms.
- Relevant regulations and standards for thermal vacuum testing in the space industry.
- Case studies and case studies of successful and failed thermal vacuum tests.
1. Optimization of the Design and Evaluation of Thermal Vacuum Tests for Satellites
- Understand the fundamental principles of **thermodynamics** and heat transfer in a vacuum.
- Master the techniques of **designing and constructing thermal vacuum chambers**.
- Learn to **select and calibrate sensors** for measuring temperature, pressure, and humidity.
- Develop skills in **numerical simulation (FEA)** of thermal vacuum tests.
- Analyze the **effects of solar radiation and albedo** on satellites.
- Study the **thermal management** of satellites and their components.
- Design and execute **effective thermal vacuum test protocols**.
- Interpret and analyze **test results** to evaluate satellite performance.
- Identify and solve **problems related to vacuum design and testing** thermal**.
Become familiar with the **norms and standards** of the aerospace industry.
3. Comprehensive user-oriented design and validation (from modeling to manufacturing)
You will learn to integrate the entire product development process, from initial model conception to final validation, applying user-centered methodologies. You will develop skills in parametric design, ergonomics, simulation, sustainable materials, 3D visualization, and manufacturing management, ensuring efficient, safe solutions that meet current industry standards.
4. Mastery of Thermal Vacuum Testing: Design, Execution and Analysis of Satellites
4. Mastery of Thermal Vacuum Testing: Design, Execution, and Analysis of Satellites
- Design and planning of thermal vacuum tests, considering the specific requirements of the satellites.
- Configuration and operation of thermal vacuum testing equipment, including vacuum chambers, temperature control systems, and data acquisition systems.
- Execution of thermal vacuum tests on satellites, following established protocols and ensuring the safety of equipment and personnel.
- Analysis of data obtained during thermal vacuum tests, including the evaluation of the satellites’ thermal performance, the identification of problems, and the verification of compliance with requirements.
- Interpretation of the results of thermal vacuum tests and their impact on the design, manufacturing, and operation of satellites.
- Application of thermal simulation techniques to predict the thermal behavior of satellites and optimize the design of thermal vacuum tests.
Thermal.
Use of specialized software for the analysis of thermal vacuum test data and the generation of technical reports.
Identification and resolution of problems related to thermal vacuum testing, including leaks, temperature gradients, and variations in thermal performance.
Knowledge of relevant standards and regulations for thermal vacuum testing of satellites, such as those of the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA.
Development of communication and collaboration skills to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
5. Simulation and Verification of Thermal-Vacuum Behavior in Satellites
5. Simulation and Verification of Thermal-Vacuum Behavior in Satellites
- Modeling and simulation of heat exchange by radiation, conduction, and convection in vacuum environments.
- Analysis of heat transfer in satellite components and subsystems, considering temperature variation over time.
- Validation of thermal models by comparison with experimental data obtained in thermal vacuum tests.
- Evaluation of the impact of solar and terrestrial radiation on satellite temperature.
- Study of the thermal expansion and contraction of materials under vacuum conditions.
- Design of passive and active thermal control systems to maintain the temperature within specified limits.
- Simulation of the behavior of cryogenic fluids in propulsion and thermal control systems.
- Analysis of the thermal stability of satellites and the prevention of Temperature-related failures.
Implementation of specialized software tools for satellite thermal simulation (e.g., Thermal Desktop, ESATAN).
Verification of thermal designs through sensitivity analysis and uncertainty analysis.
6. Advanced Strategies in Thermal-Vacuum Testing: From Concept to Satellite Operation
6. Advanced Strategies in Thermal-Vacuum Testing: From Concept to Satellite Operation
- Development of Simulation Methodologies: You will delve into the creation and validation of finite element analysis (FEA) models to simulate the structural and thermal behavior of satellites under vacuum and extreme temperature conditions.
- Design and Optimization of Thermal Systems: You will learn to design, optimize, and analyze thermal control systems (radiators, multilayer insulation, etc.) to ensure satellite operation within the required temperature ranges.
- Integration of Test and Simulation Data: You will master the ability to integrate thermal-vacuum test results with FEA simulation data to gain a comprehensive understanding of satellite behavior.
- Failure Analysis and Risk Mitigation: You will develop skills to analyze potential failure modes, identify associated risks, and design mitigation strategies.
Mitigation to ensure the reliability of space missions.
Validation and Verification Testing: You will gain experience in the planning, execution, and analysis of thermal-vacuum tests, including data interpretation and report generation.
Design Considerations for Satellite Operations: You will explore the specific design considerations necessary to ensure satellite survivability and performance throughout its orbital lifetime.
Application of Specialized Software: You will become familiar with specialized software for the simulation, analysis, and design of satellite components and systems, including tools for thermal and structural simulation.
Understanding Regulations and Standards: You will study international regulations and standards related to thermal-vacuum testing and satellite design.
Who this program is for:
Thermal vacuum testing course for satellites
- Aerospace, Mechanical, Industrial, Automation Engineers, or related disciplines.
- Professionals from OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) companies specializing in rotorcraft/eVTOL aircraft, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) organizations, consulting firms, and technology centers.
- Specialists in Flight Testing, Certification, Avionics, Control, and Dynamics seeking specialized training.
- Regulators, authorities, and other professionals involved in UAM/eVTOL (Urban Air Mobility/Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing Vehicles) who need to strengthen their compliance skills.
- Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with CS-27/CS-29, DO-160, DO-178C/DO-254, ARP4754A/ARP4761, ADS-33E-PRF from the first module.
- Accreditable laboratories (EN ISO/IEC 17025) with rotor bench, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL, vibrations/acoustics.
- Evidence-oriented TFM: safety case, test plan, compliance dossierand operational limits.
- Mentored by industry: teachers with experience in rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL/UAM and flight test.
- Flexible modality (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
- Ethics and security: safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT, DIH and compliance as pillars.
1.1 Introduction to Thermal Vacuum Testing (TVAC) in the Space Industry
1.2 Principles of Heat Transfer in a Vacuum
1.3 Components of a TVAC System: Chamber, Vacuum Systems, and Temperature Control
1.4 The Simulated Space Environment: Vacuum, Extreme Temperatures, and Solar Radiation
1.5 Effects of Vacuum and Temperature on Satellite Materials and Components
1.6 Objectives and Applications of TVAC Testing: Validation, Verification, and Certification
1.7 TVAC Testing Standards and Regulations: ECSS, MIL-STD, and Others
1.8 Design and Construction of Satellites for the Space Environment
1.9 Material Selection for the Vacuum and Extreme Temperature Environment
1.10 Case Studies: Common Satellite Failures and How TVAC Testing Prevents Them
2.2 Fundamentals of Thermal Vacuum Test Design for Satellites
2.2 Selection and Specification of TV Test Equipment
2.3 Design of Test Arrays and Instrumentation Configuration
2.4 Thermal Design Considerations for TV Tests
2.5 Evaluation of Temperature Distribution on the Satellite
2.6 Optimization of Thermal Vacuum Test Cycles
2.7 Risk Analysis and Mitigation in Test Design
2.8 Validation of Test Design: Simulation and Predictive Analysis
2.9 Documentation and Quality Control in Test Design
2.20 Case Studies: Best Practices in TV Test Design
3.3 Introduction to Satellite Integrity and Its Importance
3.2 Fundamentals of Thermal Vacuum Testing and Its Relationship to Integrity
3.3 Design of Thermal Vacuum Tests to Evaluate Structural Integrity
3.4 Failure Analysis and Failure Modes in Thermal Vacuum Testing
3.5 Techniques for Detecting and Characterizing Defects in Satellites
3.6 Validation of the Integrity of Satellite Components and Subsystems
3.7 Data Analysis and Reporting of Test Results
3.8 Integration of Results into the Design Process and Continuous Improvement
3.9 Impact of Thermal Vacuum Testing on Satellite Reliability and Durability
3.30 Case Studies: Failure Analysis and Lessons Learned in Integrity Testing
4.4 Thermal Vacuum Test Design: Fundamentals and Methodology
4.2 Equipment Selection: Cameras, Control Systems, and Sensors
4.3 Execution Procedures: Preparation, Sequences, and Protocols
4.4 Monitoring and Control: Real-Time Data and Anomaly Management
4.5 Results Analysis: Data Interpretation and Validation
4.6 Satellite Thermal Design: Considerations for TVT
4.7 Thermal Simulation: Tools and Validation
4.8 Material and Component Considerations
4.9 Reports and Documentation: Creation and Presentation
4.40 Best Practices and Case Studies
5.5 Introduction to Thermal-Vacuum Simulation in Satellites
5.5 Simulation Fundamentals: Methods and Tools
5.3 Thermal Modeling of Satellite Components
5.4 Analysis of Thermal Behavior in Vacuum Environments
5.5 Radiative Heat Transfer Simulation
5.6 Conductive Heat Transfer Simulation
5.7 Integration and Validation of Thermal Models
5.8 Interpretation and Analysis of Simulation Results
5.9 Verification and Validation of Thermal Models
5.50 Practical Applications and Case Studies
6.6 Introduction to Advanced Strategies in Thermal-Vacuum Testing for Satellites: Context and Objectives
6.2 Thermal-Vacuum Experiment Design: Planning and Methodology
6.3 Selection and Configuration of Hardware and Software for TVT Testing
6.4 TVT Test Execution: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Control
6.5 Data Analysis in TVT: Interpretation of Results and Validation
6.6 Risk Mitigation Strategies in TVT Testing
6.7 Documentation and Reporting: Standards and Best Practices
6.8 Integration of TVT Results into the Satellite Lifecycle
6.9 From Concept to Operation: Implementation of TVT Strategies
6.60 Case Study: Practical Application and Lessons Learned
- Hands-on methodology: test-before-you-trust, design reviews, failure analysis, compliance evidence.
- Software (depending on licenses/partners): MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), OpenVSP, SU2/OpenFOAM, Nastran/Abaqus, AMESim/Modelica, acoustics tools, planning toolchains DO-178C.
- SEIUM Laboratories: scale rotor bench, vibrations/acoustics, EMC/Lightning pre-compliance, HIL/SIL for AFCS, data acquisition with strain gauging.
- Standards and compliance: EN 9100, 17025, ISO 27001, GDPR.
Capstone-type projects
Admissions, fees, and scholarships
- Profile: Background in Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields; practical experience in NLP and valued information retrieval systems.
- Documentation: Updated CV, academic transcript, SOP/statement of purpose, project examples or code (optional).
- Process: Application → Technical evaluation of profile and experience → Technical interview → Review of case studies → Final decision → Enrollment.
- Fees:
- Single payment: 10% discount.
- Payment in 3 installments: No fees; 30% upon registration + 2 equal monthly payments of the remaining 35%.
Monthly payment: available with a 7% commission on the total; annual review.
Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial need, and promoting inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships.
See “Calendar & Calls for Applications,” “Scholarships & Grants,” and “Fees & Financing” in the SEIUM mega-menu.
Do you have any questions?
Our team is ready to help you. Contact us, and we will respond as soon as possible.
F. A. Q
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we have international certification
Yes: experimental models, real data, applied simulations, professional environments, real case studies.
It is not mandatory. We offer leveling tracks and tutoring.
Completely. It covers e-propulsion, integration, and emerging regulations (SC-VTOL).
Recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortiums.
Yes. Online/hybrid modality with planned labs and visa support (see “Visa & Residence”).