2024 Year in Review: A Year of Growth, Innovation and Milestones at ARS

As we reflect on 2024, Acoustic Research Systems (ARS) is proud to share the significant progress we’ve made in advancing the field of acoustic testing. This year marked important milestones that not only demonstrate our leadership in the industry but also showcase our continued commitment to innovation and excellence.

The ARS Team

This year, our team experienced significant growth. At ARS, we believe that people and culture are what truly set a company apart. I am incredibly proud of the team we are building—an exceptional group of talented subject matter experts who are not only leaders in their respective fields but also passionate, compassionate individuals who care deeply about both our internal and external clients. Our team embodies our core values, and I am both proud and humbled to serve alongside such dedicated professionals.

New Additions to Our Team (Late 2023–2024)

We welcomed several key members to our team this year, each of whom has brought invaluable expertise and energy:

• Dann Hayes – Director of Testing and Operations
• Dale Schick – Director of Applications
• Cassandra Dutt – Staff Project Engineer
• Geoff Eckert – Staff System Technician
• Nathan Kiefer – System Technician
• Keagon Isaacs – Lead Marketing Manager
• Ed Heyd – Director of Business Development

These additions have further strengthened our team and enhanced our ability to support our clients’ most challenging projects.

Key Projects and Milestones

This year, ARS had the privilege of working with many outstanding companies, providing both turn-key testing services as well as selling and commissioning new systems both domestically and internationally.

DFAN Testing at NASA’s Space Processing Facility (SSPF)

A highlight of 2024 was our involvement in the inaugural Direct Field Acoustic Noise (DFAN) testing at NASA’s Space Processing Facility (SSPF) at Kennedy Space Center. We had the honor of conducting this critical test for Sierra Space’s Shooting Star® Cargo Module, an essential component designed to expand the cargo capacity of the Dream Chaser® spaceplane, which plays a vital role in supporting missions to the International Space Station (ISS).

Using our advanced Neutron™ acoustic testing system, ARS conducted the DFAN test on-site at SSPF, replicating the acoustic and vibrational stresses of a rocket launch. This marked both the first DFAN test for the Shooting Star® and the first-ever on-site DFAN test at the SSPF. Over the course of four days, the module was exposed to sound levels exceeding 140 dB, simulating the intense acoustic conditions of a Vulcan Centaur rocket launch. This testing ensured the module’s durability and readiness for its ISS mission.

The flexibility of our Neutron™ system allowed us to conduct high-performance testing directly at SSPF, eliminating the need for costly off-site transport and leveraging the facility’s existing infrastructure. This project not only solidifies ARS’s position as a leader in aerospace testing but also highlights the growing importance of on-site testing in space exploration. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Sierra Space and supporting future missions, including the upcoming testing of the Dream Chaser® spaceplane.

Expansion at RAL Space, UK

Another significant achievement in 2024 was the successful delivery and implementation of our Neutron™ acoustic testing system at the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council’s (STFC) RAL Space site in Oxfordshire. This milestone marks the culmination of a major project we were awarded in November 2023 to enhance the National Satellite Test Facility’s (NSTF) capabilities for simulating the intense acoustic stresses space vehicles experience during launches.

The Neutron™ system, a modular and turnkey testing solution, is now fully operational and positions RAL Space as a leading facility for advanced space testing in Europe. By simulating rocket launch noise, this system plays a critical role in preparing space vehicles for the real-world conditions they will face.

In collaboration with RAL Space, we ensured their team received comprehensive training, enabling them to operate the system effectively and confidently. We are excited to continue supporting RAL Space and look forward to the impact this collaboration will have on Europe’s future space missions.

Research & Development: Setting New Standards in DFAN Testing

Throughout 2024, ARS remained committed to advancing the field of DFAN testing. Our team continued to push the boundaries of what’s possible in acoustic testing, positioning ARS as a leader in this critical area for space launch qualifications.

We made significant contributions to the industry by publishing several white papers at trade shows and conferences, educating both clients and the broader aerospace community on the importance of DFAN testing. Additionally, we authored numerous blog posts designed to keep our clients informed and engaged with our latest innovations and capabilities.

Our research and development efforts in DFAN testing have enabled us to simulate rocket launch conditions with unprecedented accuracy, ensuring spacecraft can withstand the extreme noise and vibrations of space launches. As we continue to evolve our capabilities, we look forward to further shaping the future of space exploration.

Looking Ahead

As we conclude 2024, we remain deeply committed to our mission of providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the demands of today’s space missions. Our work in DFAN testing is just one example of how ARS is dedicated to helping our clients succeed in the most challenging environments.

We are energized by the progress we’ve made this year and excited for what lies ahead in 2025. We look forward to continuing our role as a trusted partner in advancing space exploration and acoustic testing technology.