Project purpose – Part of the PLATO Project

PCTC is a sub-project of the PLATO mission (more about project), where PCTC stands for PLATO Camera Transport Container – a transport container designed for the safe transportation of PLATO cameras during their integration.

PLATO Cameras

PLATO utilizes 26 cameras for simultaneous target observation. This configuration offers the following advantages:

• Increased accuracy and observation quality due to the combination of data from multiple cameras.
• Wider sky coverage compared to previous missions, enabling the monitoring of a larger number of stars and planets.

Main Components of PCTC

PCTC consists of three key components:

1. Outer Box (OB) – provides primary mechanical and thermal protection.
2. Inner Box (IB) – shields the camera from vibrations, temperature fluctuations, and contamination.
3. Transport Cart – facilitates handling and movement during transportation and integration.

Durability and Qualification

PCTC is designed to withstand extreme conditions encountered during transportation and throughout the mission, including:

• Thermal and mechanical stress during launch and flight.
• Space radiation, which could affect sensitive components.

Before deployment, PCTC undergoes rigorous qualification tests to verify its functionality and long-term reliabilityunder these demanding conditions.

This sophisticated transport system ensures the safe delivery and integration of key optical components for the PLATO mission, contributing to its scientific success.