Before a spacecraft ever enters orbit, it must prove it can withstand one of the most aggressive environments in its lifecycle: the acoustic energy generated at liftoff. The forces created during launch can reach extreme levels, and every component, subsystem and integrated vehicle must be validated to survive them.

At Acoustic Research Systems (ARS), this is our core mission. Our Direct Field Acoustic Noise (DFAN) systems recreate launch-level acoustics with precision, scalability and repeatability, enabling customers to verify their hardware under controlled yet realistic conditions.

Engineering Launch Conditions With Accuracy

Launch vehicles generate broadband acoustic environments that load structures, avionics, solar arrays, separation mechanisms and other mission-critical hardware. To replicate this environment accurately, the testing platform must deliver:

• Uniform acoustic fields
• High-power broadband output
• Stable and repeatable performance
• Scalable configurations for any test article size

The ARS Neutron™ System is designed specifically for these requirements. It provides full-range acoustic output without the need for additional sub-bass reinforcement, and it is factory-tuned to ensure consistent test replication across campaigns.

The result is a system that can simulate liftoff conditions at customer facilities, ARS test sites or partner locations with unprecedented control and efficiency.

Purpose-Built Technology for DFAN Testing

Unlike traditional acoustic testing that relies on reverberant chambers, the Neutron™ System is engineered from the ground up for DFAN applications. Its features directly support the creation of a uniform, diffuse acoustic field:

• Bandpass-optimized horns and integrators tailored to LF, MF and HF ranges
• Highly efficient acoustic design that maximizes conversion of electrical power into acoustic output while minimizing energy consumption
• Safety-focused rigging and attachment points for accurate deployment around flight hardware
• Scalable system architecture that can support small CubeSats, large satellites or full-scale spacecraft without compromising field quality

Every component works together to deliver next-generation acoustic power output for aerospace, scientific and industrial applications.

Simplified Operation for Complex Missions

The ARS Drive allows a single operator to program, control and monitor any Neutron™ System configuration. It provides real-time telemetry, integrated control and high-channel-count data acquisition, ensuring tight correlation between acoustic field data and structural responses for post-test analysis.

With digital connectivity via Cat6 or fiber, facilities can conduct high-power acoustic tests with minimal infrastructure and maximum reliability.

Anywhere Your Mission Takes You

Every mission is different. Some require testing at customer facilities to protect sensitive hardware. Others integrate with third-party venues or specialized sites. ARS makes this flexibility routine.

Our technology and workflows are designed for:

• Mobile deployments requiring minimal external power infrastructure
• Fixed installations in high-volume production environments
• Hybrid testing campaigns coordinated through ARS partners
• Supplementary environmental testing, including shock, vibration, thermal vacuum and data acquisition, to support complete qualification programs

For customers, this means tests are executed with consistent results, regardless of location.

Mission Assurance Starts on the Ground

Every successful mission begins long before ignition. Acoustic qualification is a critical step that validates structural integrity, identifies resonances, and gives engineering teams confidence ahead of thermal, vibration or vacuum testing.

The Neutron™ System is built for this purpose. Its combination of efficiency, accuracy and scalability allows hardware to be validated quickly and safely, ultimately reducing campaign costs and timelines.

Whether you are validating a small payload or a full-scale spacecraft, ARS delivers the acoustic power, control and service required to move your mission forward with confidence.