New facility for S/C magnetic cleanliness program

Detailed magnetic cleanliness programs in space systems are mandatory, especially for Earth and interplanetary missions carrying magnetometers used for measuring magnetic fields or for a stringent attitude control. In order to cope with these demands, TAS-I (Thales Alenia Space - Italia) Torino, traditionally involved in the development and AIT (Assembly Integration and Test) of scientific satellites, has decided to enhance its actual own capability through the acquisition of a new MCF (Magnetic Cleanliness Facility), adequate to support testing of spacecraft with stringent magnetic requirements. The aim of this paper is to introduce the basic features of this facility and the foreseen capabilities. Such facility will first be used during the early stage of the program Bepi Colombo, and consistent advantages are expected with respect to the MCF used in TAS-I Torino in the past.