Featured product articles Cryogenic Load Cell On Mars

Many applications require customized solutions. Thus, FUTEK knows that when we are approached by NASA, a standard off-the-shelf product won't fully fit their bill of requirements. But being that we are in the business of providing solutions, if there's a will there's a way for FUTEK to design and develop the necessary sensor needed for the job. And that's exactly what we did.

For the MSL Mars Rover Curiosity mission, FUTEK was commissioned by NASA JPL to develop a space/flight qualified cryogenic dual-bridge donut load cell. This specific sensor sits within the drilling mechanism on the rover. Responsible to measure the forces of the drill bit, the inclusion of a dual-bridge was a necessity, allowing the sensor to provide redundant measurements of low weight on the drill bit, as the nominal weight is too low for the actuator to detect.

For more information on our MSL application or to view similar applications, please visit our application forum. If you too have a unique application requiring a customized solution, feel free to contact us.