LOXSAT – Tyler Creates

Liquid Oxygen Satellite

(LOXSAT)

Contracted by ETA Space, in collaboration with NASA’s Tipping Point program, LOXSAT is a cryogenic fluid management test flight demonstration in low Earth orbit. Rocket Lab will support the mission with the Electron launch vehicle and Photon space systems.

Served as lead structural analyst for LOXSAT, supporting both the space systems team and customer.
Developed detailed CDR vehicle-level Finite Element Models (FEMs) comprised of metallics and composites, ensuring adherence to Electron mission requirements and performance standards utilizing Simcenter 3D, NX Nastran and SATK.
Performed static and dynamic FEA on primary and secondary structures including quasi-static, random vibration, thermal elastic distortion, solar array deployments, buckling, bolted joint, environmental derivation and shock attenuation.
Presented post-CDR structural analysis to customers and leadership, effectively addressing design concerns.
Authored Quality Management System (QMS) documentation to effectively communicate structural analysis procedures while mentoring junior analysts and interns.

Successfully led structural efforts for LOXSAT, becoming adept at Simcenter and industry-standard finite element modeling techniques.
Collaborated with customer to resolve structural challenges, ensuring spacecraft design would meet industry expectations.
Oversaw the structural analysis lifecycle, from initial modeling to CDR detailed analysis up until testing.
Awarded Engineer of the Week within the Space Systems organization.