Capistrano Test Site



Founded in 1963 for development of the Apollo Lunar Module Descent Engine, the Capistrano Test Site has conducted over 50,000 tests on space propulsion, directed energy and advanced energy projects from organizations including the National Air and Space Administration (NASA), the Missile Defense Administration (MDA), the U.S. Navy, Army and Air Force, the Department of Energy and commercial customers.

Test Site Description

Capistrano Chemical Facility
As part of the Chemistry Technology Department at Space Park, the Capistrano Chemical Facility is the test center for activities involving reactive or hazardous chemicals.

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Fossil Energy Test Site (FETS)
FETS was originally built for testing coal pre-combustors and is now used for testing small gas generators.

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High Altitude Test Stand (HATS)
Alpha space based laser and Alpha Lamp Integration system facility; includes two large vacuum chambers, an integration area, and Class 100,000 clean room.

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High Energy Propellant Test Stand (HEPTS)
Component development testing of rocket engines, thrusters, gas generators, lasers, and other combustion devices. Equipped to supply a wide range of exotic reactants in gaseous, liquid, gel and cryogenic form.

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Propulsion Integrated Test Stand (PITS)
Hydrogen peroxide and hydrocarbon fuel facility with thrust capability of 70,000 pounds horizontally and 50,000 pounds vertically.

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Vertical Engine Test Stand (VETS)
Rocket and laser testing; capability to test at sea level or at altitude using steam ejector system to simulate altitude during testing.

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Support Services
Auxiliary support, machine shop, general workshops, tube bending and flaring, weld shop; high bay assembly area.

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Electro-Optical Research Lab
Equipped for experimental build up, design verification and risk reduction for electro-optical and opto-mechanical systems.




  © Northrop Grumman 2004