ALTER undertook from the Space Test Centre a range of tests including vibration, shock, TVAC and EMC tests for various models of the Hera on-board image processor. This effort not only highlights the company's technical capabilities but also reinforces its commitment to quality and innovation in developing tailored solutions for its clients, making a significant contribution to the success of the ongoing mission.
We also undertook a range of engineering tasks, testing, and procurement of electronic components for several equipment manufacturers involved in the mission.
The Hera team, led by Paolo Martino, celebrated after completing the intensive testing phase, highlighting the efforts of ALTER to meet the demanding timeline. Once at its destination, Hera will investigate the asteroid and its moon, providing crucial data for advancing planetary defense strategies.
The spacecraft was launched on 7 October 2024 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle and will study the results of the DART impactor, four years after impact. DART impacted the asteroid Dimorphos, the smaller of two objects forming the binary asteroid 65803 Didymos, on 27 September 2022.
