The Cluster spacecraft

An overview of the Cluster mission and system design is given. The spacecraft design and performance characteristics are addressed. The program for Cluster, which is based on a development philosophy incorporating six spacecraft models (one structural model, one engineering model and four flight spacecraft) is addressed. The Cluster mission is a 'first' for the ESA in that it requires the delivery of four identical spacecraft for simultaneous launch on a single launch vehicle. This series production of spacecraft to meet a unique launch opportunity has never before been attempted and represents a serious challenge to ESA, industry and the experimenters. The mission relies on the four spacecraft being placed in near identical eccentric polar orbits with a tetrahedal configuration achieved at the cusp region of the magnetosphere. The launch vehicle chosen for the mission is the first Ariane 5 qualification flight in late 1995 and the launch opportunity is offered under the APEX Program.