Inertial monolithic sensors for low frequency acceleration measurement of spacecrafts and satellites

In this paper, we describe the characteristics and performances of a monolithic sensor designed for low frequency motion measurement of spacecrafts and satellites, whose mechanics is based on the UNISA Folded Pendulum technology platform. The latter, developed for ground-based applications, exhibits unique features (compactness, lightness, scalability, low resonance frequency and high quality factor), consequence of the action of the gravitational force on its inertial mass. In this paper, we present the general methodology for extending the application of ground-based folded pendulums to space, also in total absence of gravity, still keeping all their peculiar features and characteristics, discussing the most recent improvements.