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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE PURPOSE ......................................................................................... 1

CAKE TOPPER PROGRAM OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................. 2

FALCON 9 PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................................ 2

PRICING ...................................................................................................................................................................... 2

RIDESHARE PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................................... 2

LAUNCH VEHICLE FAIRING .................................................................................................................................... 3

LAUNCH VEHICLE COORDINATE FRAME ............................................................................................................ 3

PAYLOAD COORDINATE FRAME ........................................................................................................................... 3

CAKE TOPPER INTERFACE AND AVAILABLE PAYLOAD VOLUME ................................................................. 3

MASS PROPERTIES .................................................................................................................................................. 6

LAUNCH WINDOWS ................................................................................................................................................. 7

PAYLOAD SEPARATION .......................................................................................................................................... 7

FLIGHT ENVIRONMENTS ........................................................................................................................................ 9

TRANSPORTATION ENVIRONMENTS ................................................................................................................18

CLEANROOM ENVIRONMENTS ...........................................................................................................................18

DESIGN FACTORS ..................................................................................................................................................19

FASTENERS AND CABLE TIES .............................................................................................................................19

MATERIALS AND CONTAMINATION...................................................................................................................21

ISOLATORS ..............................................................................................................................................................22

PRESSURE VESSELS AND SYSTEMS .................................................................................................................22

SOLID PROPULSION SYSTEMS ...........................................................................................................................25

VERIFICATION TEST APPROACH ........................................................................................................................26

TEST-LIKE-YOU-FLY EXCEPTIONS ......................................................................................................................28

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

POST-INTEGRATED TEST MODIFICATIONS & PENALTY RE-TEST ..............................................................28

DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................................28

PAYLOAD UNIT TEST LEVELS ..............................................................................................................................29

ACOUSTIC VS RANDOM VIBE TEST DOWNSELECTION .................................................................................33

ENVIRONMENTAL VERIFICATION REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................34

VERIFICATION FOR PRESSURE VESSELS AND SYSTEMS ........................................................................... 40

VERIFICATION FOR SOLID PROPULSION SYSTEMS ......................................................................................43

ELECTRICAL INTERFACES ...................................................................................................................................44

DEPLOYMENT PROPERTIES ................................................................................................................................44

BREAKWIRE CHANNEL PROPERTIES ................................................................................................................44

ELECTRICAL UMBILICAL CONNECTORS ...........................................................................................................45

FLIGHT HARNESS DESIGN ...................................................................................................................................45

UMBILICAL CONNECTIVITY DURING PAYLOAD PROCESSING AND ON LAUNCH PAD ..........................45

GROUND HARNESS DESIGN ................................................................................................................................46

TIMING SERVICES ..................................................................................................................................................47

INTERFACE COMPATIBILITY VERIFICATION REQUIREMENTS....................................................................47

FACILITY ACCESS AND WORKING HOURS .......................................................................................................48

CUSTOMER OFFICES .............................................................................................................................................48

SPACEX PAYLOAD PROCESSING FACILITY (PPF) ..........................................................................................48

HAZARDOUS PROCESSING FACILITY AND ASSOCIATED SUPPORT .........................................................49

LAUNCH COMPLEX ............................................................................................................................................... 50

SECURITY ................................................................................................................................................................ 50

CONTRACTING ........................................................................................................................................................51

US EXPORT AND IMPORT CONTROL LAWS .....................................................................................................51

MISSION MANAGEMENT ......................................................................................................................................51

PROGRAM DOCUMENTATION .............................................................................................................................52

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..........................................................................................................................53

SPACEX RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................................................................55

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

OVERVIEW AND SCHEDULE .................................................................................................................................59

CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD DELIVERY AND TRANSPORTATION ....................................................................59

PAYLOAD PROCESSING ........................................................................................................................................59

JOINT OPERATIONS AND INTEGRATION ......................................................................................................... 60

LAUNCH OPERATIONS ......................................................................................................................................... 60

FLIGHT OPERATIONS ............................................................................................................................................61

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS .....................................................................................................................................62

HAZARDOUS SYSTEMS AND OPERATIONS .....................................................................................................62

WAIVERS...................................................................................................................................................................62

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

AFSPCMAN ............................................................................................................................................................. Air Force Space Command Manual

AIAA ............................................................................................................................................ American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
ATM .......................................................................................................................................................................... acceleration transformation matrix
CAD .................................................................................................................................................................................................computer-aided design
CCSFS ................................................................................................................................................................... Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
CG................................................................................................................................................................................................................ center of gravity
CLA.................................................................................................................................................................................................. coupled loads analysis
CSLA ................................................................................................................................................................................ Commercial Space Launch Act
CSpOC .....................................................................................................................................................................Combined Space Operations Center
CVCM...................................................................................................................................................................... collected volatile condensable mass
DRM .................................................................................................................................................................................................... data recovery matrix
DTM ........................................................................................................................................................................ displacement transformation matrix
EAR .............................................................................................................................................................................. export administration regulations
ECEF ......................................................................................................................................................................................... earth-centered, earth-fixed
EGSE ...................................................................................................................................................................... electrical ground support equipment
EIRP ................................................................................................................................................................... equivalent isotropically radiated power
EMI ....................................................................................................................................................................................... electromagnetic interference
EMISM .................................................................................................................................................................................................... EMI safety margin
ETFE ......................................................................................................................................................................................ethylene tetrafluoroethylene
FAA ................................................................................................................................................................................. Federal Aviation Administration
FCC .....................................................................................................................................................................Federal Communications Commission
FEEP .............................................................................................................................................................................field-emission electric propulsion
FEM..................................................................................................................................................................................................... finite element model
GN2 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... gaseous nitrogen
GOP ................................................................................................................................................................................................ ground operations plan
GPS ............................................................................................................................................................................................ global positioning system
GRMS ...............................................................................................................................................................................foot-mean-square acceleration
GSE .......................................................................................................................................................................................... ground support equipment
HDRM ....................................................................................................................................................................... hold down and release mechanism
HTP .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... high test peroxide
HVAC ............................................................................................................................................................... heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
HPF ..................................................................................................................................................................................... hazardous processing facility
ICD .......................................................................................................................................................................................... interface control document
IRIG ............................................................................................................................................................................. inter-range instrumentation group
ITAR ................................................................................................................................................................... international traffic in arms regulations
KSC ................................................................................................................................................................................................. Kennedy Space Center
LOX ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... liquid oxygen
LTAN ......................................................................................................................................................................................... local time ascending node
LTDN....................................................................................................................................................................................... local time descending node
LTM .......................................................................................................................................................................................... load transformation matrix
LV .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Launch Vehicle
LVLH .................................................................................................................................................................................... local vertical/local horizontal
MDP ......................................................................................................................................................................................... maximum design pressure
MEOP................................................................................................................................................................ maximum expected operating pressure
MPE ............................................................................................................................................................................. maximum predicted environment
NASA ................................................................................................................................................. National Aeronautics and Space Administration

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

NASTRAN ..................................................................................................................................................................................NASA Structural Analysis

OASPL ................................................................................................................................................................................... overall sound pressure level
NTE .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. not-to-exceed
OPM ........................................................................................................................................................................................ orbital parameter message
OTM .................................................................................................................................................................................... output transformation matrix
P&ID ........................................................................................................................................................................ piping and instrumentation diagram
PL ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Payload
PLA .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. payload adapter
PPF .......................................................................................................................................................................................... payload processing facility
Q ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... dynamic pressure
RE ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... radiated emissions
QSL........................................................................................................................................................................................................... quasi-static loads
RF ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. radio frequency
RML .................................................................................................................................................................................................... recovered mass loss
RMS ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... root-mean-square
RP-1 ........................................................................................................................................................... rocket propellant-1 (rocket-grade kerosene)
RS ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... radiated susceptibility
RSS .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... root sum squared
RTV ....................................................................................................................................................................................room-temperature vulcanizing
SC .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... spacecraft
SCAPE ..............................................................................................................................................self-contained atmospheric protective ensemble
sccs .................................................................................................................................................................... standard cubic centimeter per second
SLC ................................................................................................................................................................................................... space launch complex
SpaceX ............................................................................................................................................................... Space Exploration Technologies Corp.
SPCS ............................................................................................................................................................................................ Space Control Squadron
SPL ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... sound pressure level
SRM ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ solid rocket motor
SRS ........................................................................................................................................................................................... shock response spectrum
STEP ............................................................................................................................................... standard for the exchange of product model data
TAA .................................................................................................................................................................................technical assistance agreement
TE ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... transporter-erector
TML ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... total mass loss
US DOT .................................................................................................................................................... United States Department of Transportation
US ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... United States
SSO .................................................................................................................................................................................................. sun-synchronous orbit
TBD ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... to be defined
USSPACECOM .............................................................................................................................................................. United States Space Command
UTC .......................................................................................................................................................................................... coordinated universal time
VC-HS ................................................................................................................................................................................visibly clean – highly sensitive
VSFB ................................................................................................................................................................................. Vandenberg Space Force Base
WVR ................................................................................................................................................................................................... water vapor regained

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure 1-1: Cake Topper Location (green)*.................................................................................................................... 1

Figure 1-2: Cake Topper Typical Mission Integration Timeline ................................................................................. 2
Figure 2-1: Launch Vehicle Coordinate Frame ............................................................................................................. 3
Figure 2-2: Topper Plate configuration (left) and Clampband configuration (right) (1194 mm example
clampband shown as a reference) ................................................................................................................................. 4
Figure 2-3: 4-point interface options (width and depth are interchangeable) ........................................................ 4
Figure 2-4: Cake Topper Payload Keep-In Volume (Clampband Configuration) .................................................... 5
Figure 2-5: Cake Topper Payload Keep-In Volume (Topper Plate and 4-point Configuration) ............................ 5
Figure 3-1: Cake Topper Mass and Center of Gravity Restrictions (Clampband Configuration) ........................ 6
Figure 3-2: Cake Topper Mass and CG (Topper Plate Configuration) ...................................................................... 6
Figure 3-3: Cake Topper Mass and CG (4-point Interface) ......................................................................................... 7
Figure 4-1: Cake Topper Axial and Lateral Load Factors (MPE)..............................................................................10
Figure 4-2: Axial and Lateral Sine Vibration MPE ....................................................................................................... 11
Figure 4-3: Maximum Predicted Acoustic Environment ........................................................................................... 12
Figure 4-4: Payload Mechanical Interface Shock ....................................................................................................... 13
Figure 4-5: Random Vibration MPE ............................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 4-6: In-Flight and Environmental Radiated Emissions / Payload Radiated Susceptibility Limit .......... 15
Figure 4-7: Bounding Conductive Boundary Temperature ....................................................................................... 17
Figure 4-8: Maximum Fairing Spot Temperature Seen by Payload ........................................................................ 17
Figure 6-1: Flight vs. Test Configuration for Cake Toppers using a Clampband Configuration ....................... 27
Figure 6-2: Flight vs. Test Configuration for Cake Toppers using a Topper Plate Configuration ..................... 27
Figure 6-3: Cake Topper Verification Decision Tree .................................................................................................. 29
Figure 6-4: Manual Notch Limit Definitions (Primary Mode ONLY) ........................................................................ 37
Figure 6-5: Isolated System Additional Testing .......................................................................................................... 39
Figure 6-6: The 15% Rule, Explained ............................................................................................................................. 41
Figure 7-1: Illustration of Breakwire Channel Categories ......................................................................................... 44
Figure 7-2: On-Pad Electrical Interfaces ....................................................................................................................... 46
Figure 9-1: Mission Management Organization ......................................................................................................... 52
Figure A-1: 15” Diameter Mechanical Interface .......................................................................................................... 63
Figure A-2: 24” Diameter Mechanical Interface .......................................................................................................... 64
Figure A-3: 937 mm Clampband Interface .................................................................................................................. 65
Figure A-4: 937 mm Clampband Configuration .......................................................................................................... 66
Figure A-5: 1194 mm Clampband Interface ................................................................................................................ 67
Figure A-6: 1194 mm Clampband Configuration ....................................................................................................... 68
Figure A-7: 1666 mm Clampband Interface ................................................................................................................ 69

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure A-8: 1666 mm Clampband Configuration .......................................................................................................70

Figure A-9: 4-point Cake Topper Interface ................................................................................................................... 71
Figure A-10: Cake Topper Keep-in Volume (Clampband Configuration) ............................................................... 72
Figure A-11: Cake Topper Keep-in Volume (Topper Plate Configuration) ............................................................. 73

Table 3-1: Typical Orbital Dispersions ............................................................................................................................ 7

Table 3-2: Launch Vehicle Rates Before Payload Separation .................................................................................... 8
Table 4-1: Cake Topper Minimum Frequency Requirements .................................................................................... 9
Table 4-2: Cake Topper Payload Design Load Factors .............................................................................................10
Table 4-3: Cake Topper Axial and Lateral Accelerations .......................................................................................... 11
Table 4-4: Third Octave Acoustic MPE ......................................................................................................................... 12
Table 4-5: Full Octave Acoustic MPE ............................................................................................................................ 12
Table 4-6: Payload Mechanical Interface Shock ........................................................................................................ 13
Table 4-7: Random Vibration MPE ................................................................................................................................ 14
Table 4-8: Launch Vehicle Radiated Emissions.......................................................................................................... 15
Table 4-9: Launch Site Radiated Emissions ................................................................................................................ 15
Table 4-10: Maximum Payload Emissions .................................................................................................................. 15
Table 4-11: Payload Transmitter Delay Time (seconds) ........................................................................................... 16
Table 4-12: Bounding Conductive Boundary Temperature and Conductance ..................................................... 17
Table 4-13: Temperature and Cleanliness Environments ........................................................................................ 18
Table 5-1: Factors of Safety ........................................................................................................................................... 19
Table 5-2: Peaking Factors ............................................................................................................................................. 19
Table 5-3: Acceptance Criteria for Reworked Fasteners After Environmental Testing ......................................20
Table 5-4: Acceptance Criteria for Fasteners Attaching to SpaceX Hardware ....................................................20
Table 5-5: Payload Materials and Contamination Requirements ........................................................................... 21
Table 5-6: Design and Test Factors for Pressure Vessels and Systems............................................................... 22
Table 5-7: Pressure Vessel Classification and Use Restrictions ............................................................................. 23
Table 6-1: Payload Unit Test Levels and Durations – Cake Topper Payloads under 500 kg ............................30
Table 6-2: Payload Unit Test Levels and Durations – Cake Topper Payloads 500 kg to 1,500 kg .................. 31
Table 6-3: Payload Unit Test Levels and Durations – Cake Topper Payloads above 1,500 kg......................... 32
Table 6-4: Low-Level Sine Sweep Acceptance Criteria ............................................................................................. 34
Table 6-5: Quasi Static Load Verification Test Requirements ................................................................................. 34
Table 6-6: Manual Notch Limits (Primary Mode ONLY) ............................................................................................ 36
Table 6-7: Non-Metallic Materials Classification ........................................................................................................ 39
Table 6-8: Verification Requirements for Pressure Vessels ..................................................................................... 41

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Table 6-9: Leak Test Requirements for Pressure Vessels ........................................................................................ 42

Table 6-10: Test Methods and Requirements for Integrated Payloads................................................................. 43
Table 7-1: Electrical Interface Summary ...................................................................................................................... 44
Table 7-2: PL-Side Breakwire Resistance Requirements .......................................................................................... 44
Table 7-3: Example In-Flight Disconnect Connectors ............................................................................................... 45
Table 7-4: Payload Electrical Interface Connectivity ................................................................................................. 45
Table 7-5: Maximum Expected Cable Lengths between Payload Racks/EGSE and the Separation Plane .... 46
Table G-1: SpaceX Deliverables ..................................................................................................................................... 83
Table G-2: Customer Deliverables ................................................................................................................................. 87
Table H-1: Payload Constituent Details .......................................................................................................................90
Table I-1: Optional Services ............................................................................................................................................ 91

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Version Date Update

1 Jan 2023 Original Release
2 Dec 2024 Updated Release
• Overall: Formatting to be consistent with updates to Rideshare Payload User’s Guide (RPUG)
• Section 1: Added < 500 kg cake toppers as a programmatic option
• Section 2: Updated standard interfaces
o Added standard PLA and Topper Plate interfaces
o Added 4-point interfaces
• Section 4: Updated Environments for:
o <500 kg cake topper payloads (new)
o Acoustics (decreased)
o Random vibe (decreased)
o Thermal (increased)
o EMI/EMC (increased)
• Section 6: Updated and improved verification
o Updated to be consistent with updates to RPUG
o Separated verification into different Cake Topper mass classes
o Updated test verification levels
o Changed shock testing to Advised
o Added guidance on random vibe vs acoustics test selection
• Section 7: Recommended electrical connectors
• Appendix A: Added 937-, 1194-, and 1666-mm and 4-point standard interfaces
• Appendix B: Updated dynamic model requirements
• Appendix C: Updated CAD model requirements
• Appendix E: Updated OPM to Rideshare format
• Appendix I: Added Table of Optional Services

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) is pleased to offer a unique solution for small-to-medium-class
spacecraft up to 2500 kg that wish to launch in a forward-mounted orientation. This offering combines the schedule
assurances of the Rideshare Program with many of the capabilities of primary, dedicated missions. This User’s Guide is
an applicable document for Cake Topper contracts. Deviation requests are considered on a per-contract basis, are not
guaranteed to be accepted, and are not applicable to other contracts.

The Cake Topper Payload User’s Guide is a planning document provided for medium-sized satellite Customers of
SpaceX. This document is intended to help Customers understand SpaceX’s standard services for pre-contract mission
planning and to delineate Customer requirements for contracted Cake Topper Launch Services. This User’s Guide
provides environmental, interface, and preliminary launch operations information for payloads utilizing the “Cake Topper”
location, a top-mount interface on the forward end of a rideshare hardware “stack”. This document outlines the standard
services.

SpaceX reserves the right to update this guide as required. Future revisions are likely as SpaceX continues to gather
additional data and works to improve the Cake Topper product offering.

Figure 1-1: Cake Topper Location (green)*

*Example hardware configuration shown above for Payload mounted on Rideshare Plates; configuration is subject to change.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The timeline of a typical Cake Topper contract is shown in Figure 1-2. Contract signature to launch is typically 1-2 years
depending on spacecraft readiness and Launch Vehicle (LV) availability.

Figure 1-2: Cake Topper Typical Mission Integration Timeline

SpaceX will provide kickoff materials shortly after the launch services contract is signed. To aid in communication,
SpaceX will send document templates for the Customer to complete. A description of the documents associated with
each milestone can be found in Appendix G: Deliverable Descriptions.

To ensure a smooth Launch Campaign and a successful mission for all Customers, SpaceX will maintain an Interface
Control Document (ICD) for the Payload. Requirements in the ICD are designed to ensure the safety of all Co-Payloads
and the Launch Vehicle. SpaceX and the Customer will periodically review and update the ICD throughout the mission
integration process. Approximately six months before Launch, the Customer and SpaceX begin planning Range Safety
and Launch Campaign operations.

Detailed mission analysis deliveries that rely on a known rideshare stack configuration are not available until
approximately L-2 months. Before the Payload is delivered to the Launch Site, the ICD is signed and a review is held to
confirm Launch Campaign readiness as well as the Payload-specific schedule. The Payload is then shipped to the
Launch Site, where it is integrated to the Launch Vehicle.

SpaceX will provide a best-estimate Payload separation state vector, or Orbital Parameter Message (OPM) to the
Customer shortly after Payload separation, as described in Appendix E: Delivery Format of Separation State Vector.

Customer is responsible for tracking and contacting the Payload after separation from the Launch Vehicle.

Please refer to the SpaceX Falcon User’s Guide latest revision, available on www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/, for
detailed information regarding the Falcon program, including Operations and Launch Vehicle safety and reliability.

For Cake Topper pricing, please reach out to sales@spacex.com.

Please refer to the SpaceX Rideshare Payload User’s Guide latest revision, available on
https://www.spacex.com/rideshare/, for more information about flying small satellites on side-mounted ports.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Payload, Co-Payload(s), and all SpaceX hardware, including the Rideshare Plate system will be co-located in the
Falcon-9 fairing volume. Please refer to the SpaceX Falcon User’s Guide, latest revision, available on
www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/ for details.

The Launch Vehicle uses a right-hand X-Y-Z coordinate frame, indicated with the subscript “LV”, centered 440.69 cm
(173.5 in.) aft of the first-stage radial engine gimbal, with +XLV aligned with the vehicle long axis and +ZLV opposite the
TE strongback as shown in Figure 2-1. XLV is the roll axis, YLV is the pitch axis, and ZLV is the yaw axis.

ZLV

XLV YLV

Figure 2-1: Launch Vehicle Coordinate Frame

The origin of the Payload coordinate system is fixed at the center of the separation plane. The Payload should use a
right-hand X-Y-Z coordinate system (indicated with a subscript "PL") such that it is aligned with launch vehicle axes:
Payload axial direction +XPL aligned with launch vehicle +XLV (in the direction of deployment), and +ZPL aligned with the
launch vehicle +ZLV direction. Customers should provide all data and deliverables in this Payload Coordinate Frame.

SpaceX offers three standard circular clampband interfaces for Cake Topper Payloads (Clampband Configuration):

• 937 mm (36.89”)
• 1194 mm (47.01”)
• 1666 mm (65.59”)

These spacecraft interfaces adapt to a standard 1575 mm interface at the base of the Payload Adapter (PLA) interface
with the rideshare stack. SpaceX will either procure and integrate a PLA and clampband separation system or integrate
a PLA chosen and provided by the Customer with these standard circular interfaces requirements as a standard service.
See Appendix A for specifications.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

In addition to standard clampband interfaces, SpaceX offers two standard circular interfaces for smaller Cake Topper
Payloads that adapt to a Cake Topper Plate (Topper Plate Configuration).

• 381 mm (15”) circular interface

• 610 mm (24”) circular interface

These interfaces will be provided via a SpaceX-provided conical adapter. The Payload must mechanically interface to
the Launch Vehicle hardware via 0.25” diameter 28 threads-per-inch fasteners. The number of fasteners will be
dependent on the diameter of the bolt circle and are defined in Appendix A.

Standard
interface

PLA
Topper Plate

Standard 1,575 mm
circular interface
interface

Figure 2-2: Topper Plate configuration (left) and Clampband configuration (right) (1194 mm example clampband
shown as a reference)

In addition to circular interfaces, SpaceX can also accommodate 4-point standard interfaces, with the interface footprint
options as shown in Figure 2-3. Width and depth are interchangeable.

Figure 2-3: 4-point interface options (width and depth are interchangeable)
All payloads using a 4-point interface will mechanically attach to the Launch Vehicle hardware at each interface foot via
four clearance holes, for 0.5” diameter fasteners on a 3.5” diameter circle. 4-point Cake Topper Payloads may assume a
rigid mounting interface to the Topper Plate.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Payloads must conform to the customer-side interface specifications. Tolerances, as measured on the customer-side
of the Launch Vehicle interface, must be within the maximum positional tolerances. See Appendix A for all detailed
specifications. Customers must provide a metrology report of their 4-point interface to ensure it complies with these
specifications.

For Payloads using a Clampband Configuration, the Cake Topper Payload keep-in volume is shown in Figure 2-4 and
Appendix A. A CAD model of the payload volume is available upon request. To verify that the Payload fits inside the keep-
in volume, Customers should align their Payload such that the separation plane is aligned with the base of the volume.

Figure 2-4: Cake Topper Payload Keep-In Volume (Clampband Configuration)

For Payloads using a Topper Plate or 4-point Configuration, the Cake Topper Payload keep-in volume is shown in Figure
2-5 and Appendix A.

Figure 2-5: Cake Topper Payload Keep-In Volume (Topper Plate and 4-point Configuration)

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Cake Topper Payloads must comply with the mass and center-of-gravity limitations given in Figure 3-1, Figure 3-2, and
Figure 3-3, depending on the Cake Topper interface configuration that is chosen. Mass/CG may be further constrained
by the separation system capabilities. The center of gravity is relative to the Cake Topper origin, with the origin defined
at the separation plane. The Launch Vehicle may be able to accommodate Cake Topper Payloads with characteristics
in excess of these limits: for example, with a reduced Rideshare capacity. Please contact SpaceX with your mission-
unique requirements.

Figure 3-1: Cake Topper Mass and Center of Gravity Restrictions (Clampband Configuration)

Figure 3-2: Cake Topper Mass and CG (Topper Plate Configuration)

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

For Payloads with a 4-point interface, the mass and XPL CG limitations are defined in Figure 3-3. Customers must select
the mass and XPL CG curve that matches the shorter edge of their 4-point interface, as measured from foot to foot.

Examples:

• For a 16” x 40” 4-point interface, mass and CG must be within the ‘Short edge 16” or greater’ capability curve.
• For a 28” x 32” 4-point interface, mass and CG must be within the ‘Short edge 24” or greater’ capability curve.

Figure 3-3: Cake Topper Mass and CG (4-point Interface)

The Launch Vehicle is capable of launching any day of the year, at any time of day, subject to environmental limitations
and constraints as well as range availability and readiness within the SpaceX-determined Launch Period. Launch
Window times and durations are developed specifically for each Mission. Customers may benefit from recycle
operations (reference Section 10.5.5), maximizing launch opportunities within the Launch Window.

The Launch Vehicle offers 3-axis attitude control as standard practice. The Launch Vehicle will point the second stage
and Payload to an attitude determined by the Cake Topper Customer (if applicable) or by SpaceX otherwise.

Cake Topper Payloads may be part of a two-orbit drop-off mission, to ensure Co-Payloads can be deployed within
standard Rideshare Program mission altitudes. Orbit parameters are defined in terms of semi-major axis altitude and
eccentricity (as opposed to apogee and perigee). Standard dispersions of orbital parameters are as follows:

Table 3-1: Typical Orbital Dispersions

Parameter Example Transporter Values Allowable Dispersion
Mean Semi-Major Axis Altitude 510 km or 590 km (typical) +/- 20 km
Mean Inclination SSO (typical) or 45 degrees +/- 0.1 deg
Mean Eccentricity Circular (typical) <0.004
Mean LTAN or Mean LTDN Customer-defined Customer-defined

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

SpaceX may be able to provide reduced dispersions on a mission-specific basis. Please contact SpaceX for more details.
Note that all missions fly south out of SpaceX launch sites that are north of the equator, so Local Time Ascending Node
(LTAN) will be approximately 12 hours after launch time for sun-synchronous orbits (SSO). Osculating elements are
available, upon request.

Cake Topper Payloads should be designed to meet a separation velocity typically between 0.3 m/s and 1.5 m/s, which
is determined by both the payload mass and the Payload separation system characteristics. Post-separation rates will
also depend on spacecraft mass properties and the separation mechanism but typically target < 2.5 deg/s in all axes.
Please contact SpaceX for any mission-specific requests. Note that post-separation rates are inclusive of the pre-
separation rates, as defined below in Table 3-2. Post-separation rates are determined through mission-specific
separation analysis.

Table 3-2: Launch Vehicle Rates Before Payload Separation

Axis Rate
Launch Vehicle Roll (WX) ± 2.0 deg/s
Launch Vehicle Pitch (WY) ± 1.0 deg/s
Launch Vehicle Yaw (WZ) ± 1.0 deg/s

Sun angle exclusion requirements during ascent may affect performance or launch availability. However, most sun-angle
exclusion requirements are driven by component thermal limits. Therefore, Cake Topper Payloads are encouraged to
evaluate sun angle exclusion requirements as a maximum amount of time in direct sunlight. Please contact SpaceX for
details and pricing if sun angle exclusions are required, as these can be evaluated on a mission-specific basis.

Payloads must adhere to the following rules on payload maneuvers and deployments after Payload separation from the
Launch vehicle:

• Delay attitude maneuvers until at least 120 seconds after Payload separation from the Launch Vehicle
• Delay mechanical appendage deployment (e.g., solar panel deployment) until at least 120 seconds after
Payload separation from the Launch Vehicle
o For any mechanical appendage deployment within first 24 hours, Customer must communicate to
SpaceX a bounding hard body radius for the Payload
• Delay secondary deployments, if applicable (e.g., a deployed object deploying a sub-Payload) until at least 7
days after Payload separation from the Launch Vehicle
• Delay propulsive maneuvers until at least one orbit after Payload separation
• Any secondary deployments (if applicable) must be performed while under active attitude control. Deployments
in uncontrolled directions or during Payload tumbling are not allowed

The 7-day period for secondary deployments and one-orbit period for propulsive maneuvers allows adequate time for
external cataloging of all Co-Payloads deployed from the Launch Vehicle and sufficient orbital spreading before
additional release of Payload Constituents or orbital maneuvers.

It is the Customer's responsibility to pre-coordinate orbital maneuvers or the secondary deployment of Payload
Constituents with the 18th Space Control Squadron (SPCS), submit estimated trajectories for screening to the 18th
SPCS, and demonstrate to SpaceX that coordination with the 18th SPCS has been completed. See Section 9.5.7 for
information on Coordination with Space Situational Awareness Agencies.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The Launch Vehicle has been designed to provide a benign Payload environment. The environments presented
below reflect typical Mission maximum predicted environments (MPE) for Payloads. Mission-specific analyses
will be performed by SpaceX as indicated in Section 9.6.9.

This section describes the MPE the Cake Topper Payload will experience from liftoff through separation. Environments
are defined at the Payload interface.

Payloads must show compliance to all environments in Table 6-1, Table 6-2, or Table 6-3 (according to payload mass),
as well as contamination requirements. Other environments are given for informational purposes only.

IMPORTANT: To ensure mission safety, all Payloads must be tested in a fully integrated, flight configuration
(everything, including all Payload Constituents that comprise the Payload and attach to the SpaceX-provided
mechanical interface, all firmware, software affecting deploy/power inhibits, and electrical systems). Integrated
flight hardware testing provides workmanship screening as well as validation of design analyses for the entire
Payload assembly. This testing is required to ensure safety of the primary Mission and of Co-Payloads. Verification
testing is detailed in Section 6.

Cake Topper Payloads are subject to the minimum frequency requirements in Table 4-1 below. Payloads must have no
elastic natural frequencies below the frequencies in Table 4-1.

Table 4-1: Cake Topper Minimum Frequency Requirements

Size Minimum Lateral Frequency Minimum Axial Frequency
< 500 kg 40 Hz 40 Hz
> 500 Kg 15 Hz 25 Hz

Payloads with fundamental frequencies at or below these values will require SpaceX approval and may be subject to
increased load factors. Payloads must have a quality factor between Q = 10 and Q = 50 in order to ensure that the
requirements defined in Section 4 are sufficient to cover the appropriate flight environments.

An ‘elastic natural frequency’ is defined in this document as ‘any frequency response of the Payload with any modal
participation, as computed by a fixed-base modal analysis.’

See Section 6.7.1 for detailed verification requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Cake Topper Payload design load factors are listed in Table 4-2, and are valid for Payloads with fundamental frequencies
and quality factors as described in Section 4.1.1.

Figure 4-1: Cake Topper Axial and Lateral Load Factors (MPE)
Table 4-2: Cake Topper Payload Design Load Factors
< 500 kg 500 - 800 kg > 800 kg
Lateral (g) Axial (g) Lateral (g) Axial (g) Lateral (g) Axial (g)
6 11 4 9.5 3.5 9
-6 11 4 5 3.5 4.5
-6 -6 5 5 4.5 4.5
6 -6 5 -2.5 4.5 -2
4 -2.5 3.5 -2
4 -5 3.5 -4.5
-4 -5 -3.5 -4.5
-4 -2.5 -3.5 -2
-5 -2.5 -4.5 -2
-5 5 -4.5 4.5
-4 5 -3.5 4.5
-4 9.5 -3.5 9
4 9.5 3.5 9

The maximum predicted sine vibration environment is defined below in Figure 4-2 and Table 4-3. This environment is
defined for Payloads with Q ≥ 10 and may be notched at primary mode(s) to stay within the design load factors defined
in Section 4.1.2. Notching profiles, along with calculations to show notch derivations, are due at least two weeks before
spacecraft testing begins but should be delivered as soon as possible to ensure alignment on notching profiles.

Dynamic models are required to be submitted per Appendix B: Payload Dynamic Model Requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure 4-2: Axial and Lateral Sine Vibration MPE

Table 4-3: Cake Topper Axial and Lateral Accelerations
< 500 kg > 500 kg
Frequency (Hz) Axial Acceleration (g) Lateral Acceleration (g) Axial Acceleration (g) Lateral Acceleration (g)
(Q ≥10) (Q ≥10) (Q ≥10) (Q ≥10)
5 1.6 1.4 0.8 1.0
15 2 1.4 1.1 1.0
30 2 1.4 1.1 1.0
35 2 1.4 1.0 1.0
40 2 1.4 1.0 1.0
50 2 1.8 1.0 1.0
60 2 1.8 1.0 1.0
70 1.8 1.8 1.0 1.0
85 1.8 1.8 1.0 1.0
100 1.8 1.8 1.0 1.2

The maximum predicted acoustic environment, defined as the spatial average and derived at a P95/50 level, is shown
in Figure 4-3. Table 4-4 and Table 4-5 define the environment in third octave and full octave, respectively. A Mission-
specific analysis will not be provided by SpaceX.

Acoustic mitigations may be available as an optional service. Please contact SpaceX for assessment of mission-specific
acoustic requirements and pricing.

See Sections 6.5, 6.6, and 6.7.5 for detailed verification requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure 4-3: Maximum Predicted Acoustic Environment

Table 4-4: Third Octave Acoustic MPE Table 4-5: Full Octave Acoustic MPE
Acoustic MPE Acoustic MPE
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
1/3 Octave (dB) Full Octave (dB)
25 120.0 31.5 126.1
31.5 121.0 63 128.6
40 122.5 125 132.6
50 123.4 250 134.5
63 123.8 500 132.3
80 124.2 1000 127.4
100 125.9 2000 123.8
125 127.7 4000 120.8
160 129.3 8000 117.8
200 129.8 OASPL (dB) 139.3
250 129.9
315 129.6
400 128.7
500 127.4
630 126.0
800 124.0
1000 122.5
1250 121.0
1600 120.0
2000 119.0
2500 118.0
3150 117.0
4000 116.0
5000 115.0
6300 114.0
8000 113.0
10000 112.0
OASPL (dB) 139.3

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The shock response spectrum MPE, for Q=10 at the Payload mechanical interface is defined in Table 4-6 and Figure 4-4
(solid black line). This MPE envelopes the following shock events:

• Fairing deployment shock

• Co-Payload separation(s) shock (assuming a minimum of three bolted joints between Co-Payloads)
• Average shock for the Payload separation system (SpaceX-provided)

SpaceX-provided separation systems provide an average shock within the MPE in Table 4-6. Some separation systems
may have shock characteristics that vary and differ from the stated average. Contact SpaceX or the separation system
manufacturer for more details.

Customers may opt for a spacecraft shock test with the flight Payload Adapter (PLA), which takes place at the Customer
facility. For low-shock separation systems that provide shock levels lower than those defined below in this section, the
shock levels stated in Table 4-6 must still be evaluated in order to account for co-payload and fairing shock. Customer-
defined shock requirements lower than Table 4-6 are not permitted.

Note that “Maximum Allowable Induced by Payload Separation System” is for Customers that wish to bring their own
separation system (dotted black line); SpaceX-provided separation systems provide an average shock within the MPE
(solid black line).

Table 4-6: Payload Mechanical Interface Shock

MPE Induced by Launch Vehicle and Maximum Allowable Induced by
Frequency (Hz)
Co-Payload(s) SRS (g) Payload Separation System SRS (g)
100 30 30
1,000 1000 --
1,950 -- 2850
10,000 1000 2850

Figure 4-4: Payload Mechanical Interface Shock

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The random vibration MPE for the Payload, derived at a P95/50 level, is defined in Table 4-7 and Figure 4-5. These Cake
Topper levels are applicable only if flying with Rideshare Co-Payloads. A change in mission type to a Dedicated Launch
must follow the standard dedicated Falcon 9 User Guide random vibration levels.

See Sections 6.5, 6.6, and 6.7.6 for detailed verification requirements.

Table 4-7: Random Vibration MPE

Frequency (Hz) Random Vibration MPE (P95/50) (g^2/Hz), All Axes
20 0.0044
100 0.0044
300 0.01
700 0.01
800 0.015
925 0.015
2000 0.00322
GRMS 4.05

Figure 4-5: Random Vibration MPE

Payloads are subject to the electromagnetic environments in the following sections. Payloads with launch pad
connectivity should be powered off at T-1 hour before launch through deployment plus the time in Table 4-11, but may
still experience the electromagnetic environment MPE during launch site processing. Payloads powered on during
ascent must show compatibility to the environments in this section and may be subject to additional optional service
pricing. Incompatibilities with environments in this section will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Customers must ensure that Payload materials or components sensitive to RF environments are compatible with the
worst-case radiated environment shown in Figure 4-6. LV, including Co-Payloads, and Launch Site radiated emissions,
are shown in Table 4-8 and Table 4-9 respectively. EMI margin is not included.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

155
Flight
Field Strength [dBμV/m]
150
145
140 Launch Site
135
130
125
120
115
110
10 100 1000 10000
Frequency [MHz]
Figure 4-6: In-Flight and Environmental Radiated Emissions / Payload Radiated Susceptibility Limit

Table 4-8: Launch Vehicle Radiated Emissions Table 4-9: Launch Site Radiated Emissions
Frequency Range (MHz) E-Field Limit (dBμV/m) Frequency Range (MHz) E-Field Limit (dBμV/m)
1.00–2200.0 120 1.00–400 132
2200.0–2300.0 140 400–1200 140
2300.0-2360.0 120 1200–11000 150
2360.0-2395.0 140 11000–18000 132
2395.0–18000.0 120

These limits envelope the expected emissions from the LV, Co-Payloads, and Launch Site emitters. The Customer
should assume 26 dB of shielding from Launch Site sources when testing and integrating the Payload in either the PPF
or the Hangar Annex (CCSFS only).

The emission envelope for Cake Topper missions, including 6 dB of EMI safety margin by test, or 12 dB of EMI safety
margin by analysis, is shown in Table 4-10. Levels shown are as measured at the spacecraft separation plane.

Table 4-10: Maximum Payload Emissions

Frequency Range (MHz) by Test (dBμV/m) by Analysis (dBμV/m)
30.0–1000.0 108 102
1000.0-1127.0 154 148
1127.0-1327.0 33 27
1327.0-1475.0 154 148
1475.0-1675.0 33 27
1675.0-18000.0 154 148

Standard Launch Services do not permit use of Payload transmitters while integrated to the LV hardware. Payload
transmitters may be enabled after the time interpolated using the information found in Table 4-11.

Standard launch services do not permit use of Payload transmitters during ascent and must be powered off at T-1 hour.
Payloads that require power during ascent must inform SpaceX prior to launch services agreement (LSA) finalization.
See Section 6.7.7 for Verification requirements for Payloads that must be powered ON.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Payload transmitters may only be enabled after a minimum time after Payload separation, as defined in Table 4-11
(values may be interpolated). Turn-on times apply to Payloads flying on dedicated Rideshare missions (such as
“Transporter”); Payloads not flying on dedicated Rideshare missions may be subject to different minimum turn-on delay
times and should contact SpaceX for more information.

Table 4-11: Payload Transmitter Delay Time (seconds)

EIRP (Watts) ≤0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 20 100 1000

EIRP (dBm) 0 10 20 30 40 43 50 60
0.3 1 2 6 19 58 82 183 578
0.5 1 2 4 11 35 49 110 347
Separation
Velocity 1.0 1 1 2 6 18 25 55 174
(m/s)
2.0 1 1 1 3 9 13 28 87
5.0 1 1 1 2 4 5 11 35

Additionally, any transmitter centered in the following bands may need to wait to enable these transmitters until “End of
Mission,” as defined by the Mission-specific second stage re-entry time (usually a minimum of 1 hour, or 3,600 seconds,
after the first Payload deploy).

• Band 1: 2206.0 – 2216.0 MHz

• Band 2: 2227.5 – 2237.5 MHz
• Band 3: 2242.5 – 2260.5 MHz
• Band 4: 2267.5 – 2277.5 MHz
• Band 5: 2365.5 – 2375.5 MHz
• Band 6: 2377.5 – 2387.5 MHz

Cake Topper Payloads must inform SpaceX prior to launch services agreement (LSA) finalization if transmitting inside
one of these bands.

Fairing internal pressure will decay at a rate no larger than 0.40 psi/sec (2.8 kPa/sec) from liftoff through immediately
prior to fairing separation, except for brief periods during flight, where the fairing internal pressure will decay at a rate no
larger than 0.65 psi/sec (4.5 kPa/sec), for no more than 5 seconds. A mission-specific analysis will not be provided by
SpaceX.

Bounding hot and cold boundary temperatures and conductance values at the interface of the Payload and the SpaceX-
provided Mechanical Interface are shown in Table 4-12 and Figure 4-7.

Customer may use these boundary conditions to run a Payload-specific thermal analysis. Upon request, SpaceX will
provide a representative description of thermal attitude parameters to the Customer once a target orbit has been
identified in the Statement of Work (SOW).

Note that these boundary conditions are only relevant after Liftoff at Time = 0 as they contain analysis uncertainty that
is not appropriate on the ground. The convective environment in Table 4-12 fully defines the Pre-Launch environment. A
Mission-specific thermal analysis will not be provided by SpaceX. The values listed below are for the SpaceX side of the
interface; no results are provided for the customer side of the interface and the below should not be assumed to be
enveloping of Payload temperatures through flight. See Table 6-1 and Section 6.7.10 for detailed verification
requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Table 4-12: Bounding Conductive Boundary Temperature and Conductance

Time (s) Hot Temperature (°C) Cold Temperature (°C) Min Conductance (W/°C) Max Conductance (W/°C)
0 40 -5 0 7.7
1000 42 -10 0 7.7
2000 55 -15 0 7.7
3000 69 -20 0 7.7
7200 69 -20 0 7.7

Figure 4-7: Bounding Conductive Boundary Temperature

The LV fairing is designed such that the temperature seen by the Payload never exceeds the temperature profile shown
in Figure 4-8. The emissivity of the fairing is approximately 0.9.

Figure 4-8: Maximum Fairing Spot Temperature Seen by Payload

The maximum free molecular aero-thermal heating rate experienced by the Payload is less than 3,500 W/m2 at fairing
separation. Free molecular aero-thermal heating declines significantly and becomes negligible over the next couple of
minutes. The free molecular heating environment can be assessed on a mission-specific basis, if required. Please
contact SpaceX for additional details.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Transportation environments at launch site facilities will be enveloped by the flight environments in Section 4.

The standard service temperature, humidity, and cleanliness environments during various processing phases are
provided in Table 4-13. Conditioned air will only be disconnected for short durations (generally between 30 and 60
minutes) during pre-determined operations such as movements, lifts, and rollout to the pad. Payload environmental
temperatures will be maintained above the dew point of the supply air at all times. The SpaceX-supplied mechanical
interface and fairing surface are cleaned to Visibly Clean, Highly Sensitive (VC-HS) level.

Table 4-13: Temperature and Cleanliness Environments

Phase Control System Temp °C (°F) Humidity Cleanliness (Class)

Payload Processing PPF HVAC

CCSFS/KSC: 45% ± 15%
Propellant Conditioning VSFB: 50% ± 15%
PPF HVAC
and Loading
Transport to Hangar
Transport trailer unit 21 ± 3 (70 ± 5) 25% to 60%
(CCSFS/KSC only)
Ducted supply from
Encapsulated in standalone HVAC unit CCSFS/KSC: 45% ± 15% 100,000
Hangar or transport trailer unit VSFB: 50% ± 15% (Class 8) or better
(if required)
Encapsulated Roll-Out None (transport trailer
No Control System No Control System
to Pad unit if required)
Bulk air temperature
Encapsulated on Pad will remain between
Pad air conditioning 0% 1 to 65%
(Vertical or Horizontal) 10 and 32 (50 to 90),
targeting 21 (70)
1. Supply air is switched to GN2 during the Launch Countdown sequence.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Purpose: To ensure safety and reliability of the Payload, the Launch Vehicle, and personnel present during operations.

Payload systems and structural components, including separation mechanisms, should hold to the minimum design
factors shown in Table 5-1 and Table 5-2. Customers should use the peaking factor table to account for additional load
peaking when determining the compatibility of Payloads with their selected separation system. Peaking factors from the
Launch Vehicle, the separation system, and the Payload are compounding.

Table 5-1: Factors of Safety Table 5-2: Peaking Factors

Factor of Safety Min design factor Peaking factor Min design factor
Yield (flight, ground) 1.10 Separation system interface Variable 1
Joint gap and slip (interfaces) 1.10 1. Consult separation system User’s Guide for guidance on
peaking factor
Ultimate (flight) 1.25
Ultimate (ground operations) 1.40
Yield (GSE lifting hardware) 1
3.0
Ultimate (GSE lifting hardware) 1 4.0
1. AFSPCMAN 91-710 Vol 3 for detailed requirements

Purpose: To ensure the structural integrity of the Payload and any parts replaced on a Payload after exposure to
environments designed to qualify and/or screen structural load paths and secondary structures. Any fasteners removed
and reworked after environmental testing must meet the acceptance criteria given in Table 5-3. Customers are strongly
encouraged to design Payloads to fully meet fastener rework design requirements, as deviations are not permitted and
will result in a mandatory delta-vibration workmanship test.

See Section 6.7.11 for detailed verification requirements.

• Fastener rework should be kept to a minimum, and Payload providers should ensure that the Payload is tested
in its integrated state to the fullest extent. If more than 20 fasteners are reworked on a Payload (within
guidelines set out above), a penalty vibe acceptance test will be required. The intent is to allow for one access
panel to be removed and replaced for inspection/instrumentation access post vibe and/or multiple deployment
devices to be reset.
• Fasteners reworked to reset deployable devices such as ejectors, microlatches, and other HDRMs must follow
the guidance set out by the manufacturer of the device and the acceptance criteria in Table 5-3. For these
devices, a minimum of one locking feature is required for reworked fasteners #03/M2.5 or larger. The locking
feature must be selected to maintain the correct function of the deployment device.
• The following fasteners are exempt from the rework criteria set out above and do not count towards the number
of fasteners reworked (best practices on secondary retention features and installation methods still apply):
o Fasteners used to reattach access panels mounted on fully containerized CubeSats
o Fasteners securing non-structural components that are fully containerized within the Payload or an
enclosure

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Table 5-3: Acceptance Criteria for Reworked Fasteners After Environmental Testing
Smaller than #03
#08 (0.164” diameter) or larger Between #03 (0.099” diameter) and #08
Criteria Smaller than
M4 (4 mm diameter) or larger Between M2.5 (2.5 mm diameter) and M4
M2.5
• Fastener must incorporate a minimum of • Fastener must incorporate a minimum
one locking feature that does not depend of two locking features that do not
upon preload to function. In order of depend upon preload to function. In
preference: order of preference:
o prevailing torque feature like a o prevailing torque feature like a
distorted thread locking nut or distorted thread locking nut
Locking patched fastener o tab washer with one mechanical
features o lock wire/lock cable stop on the fastener and one stop
o staked fastener head with process on the underlying part
hardness check o lock wire/lock cable
o thread locker with process joint o staked fastener head with
strength check on a representative process hardness check
sample o cotter pin through each fastener Not allowed
o cotter pin through each fastener

• Fasteners installed in through-holes shall have a minimum acceptable thread protrusion

Thread beyond the end of a nut or nut plate of two thread pitches. This ensures that all of the
engagement fully formed threads on the fastener can carry load
• Fasteners threaded into blind holes shall be selected to prevent contacting the bottom of
the hole or interfering with incomplete internal threads

• Fasteners must be installed by means of an installation procedure that uses a calibrated

Installation torque tool, measures installation torque, and verifies retention is functional (e.g.,
measures prevailing torque and compares to limits, visual verification on lock wire/cable,
test coupon for thread locker to test breakaway torque, etc.)

Purpose: To ensure the structural integrity of the Payload and of Launch Vehicle hardware, once mated.

Any fasteners used to mate the Payload to SpaceX hardware must meet the requirements shown in Table 5-4. Contact
SpaceX for more information on recommended fastener types and/or part numbers.

Table 5-4: Acceptance Criteria for Fasteners Attaching to SpaceX Hardware

Fastener size Per standard interface

• Fastener must incorporate a minimum of one locking feature that do not depend upon preload
to function. In order of preference:
o prevailing torque feature like a nut plate, distorted thread locking nut or patched fastener
Locking features
o lock wire/lock cable
o staked fastener head with process hardness check
o thread locker with proper application process hardness check

• Fasteners installed in through-holes shall have a minimum acceptable thread protrusion beyond
the end of a nut or nut plate of two thread pitches. This ensures that all of the fully formed
Thread engagement threads on the fastener can carry load
• Fasteners threaded into blind holes shall be selected to prevent contacting the bottom of the
hole or interfering with incomplete internal threads

• Fasteners must be installed by means of an installation procedure that uses a calibrated torque
tool, measures installation torque, and verifies retention is functional (e.g., measures prevailing
Installation
torque and compares to limits, visual verification on lock wire/cable, test coupon for thread
locker to test breakaway torque, etc.)

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

All cable ties intended for flight must be non-removable, preferably made from Nylon 6/6 or ETFE/Tefzel, and must be
included in vibration testing. Removable cable ties are only for temporary use during in-process harness routing and
must be removed before flight. Contact SpaceX for recommended part numbers.

Purpose: To limit the contamination of the Payload to Co-Payload(s) and the Launch Vehicle.

Payloads must meet the materials and contamination requirements defined in Table 5-5.

Fully containerized CubeSats are exempt from requirements on Visual Cleanliness, Non-Metallic Materials, Metallic
Materials, and Silicone Sensitivity (all requirements still apply to the CubeSat dispensers).

See Section 6.7.12 for detailed verification requirements.

Table 5-5: Payload Materials and Contamination Requirements

Requirement Description

Payloads must be cleaned to VC-HS standards per NASA-SN-C-005D prior to integration onto Launch
Visual Cleanliness
Vehicle hardware

Each individual non-metallic material used in the construction of the Payload that will be exposed to
vacuum must satisfy the following quantities, when tested per ASTM E-595:
• RML ≤ 1.0% (RML = TML - WVR), AND
• CVCM ≤ 0.1%
If WVR is unknown, then assume WVR = 0%
Non-Metallic Materials
To comply with this requirement, Customers should avoid the use of markers, pens, and paint pens to
mark Payload hardware. If markers are required for use, for instance for torque striping, SpaceX
encourages the use of Mighty Marker MM07/MM08 black. Sharpie markers are prohibited

Exceptions to this requirement are allowed using the rationale codes as given in 6.7.12. Rationale
codes will be evaluated by SpaceX

The selection of metallic materials by the Customer will include consideration of corrosion, wear
Metallic Materials products, shedding, and flaking in order to reduce particulate contamination. Dissimilar metals in
contact will be avoided unless adequately protected against galvanic corrosion

The Payload will not create particulate during the vibroacoustic ascent environment. Actuation of any
Payload Particulate
Payload mechanisms nearby any Co-Payload(s) or Launch Vehicle Hardware must not create
Generation
particulate

The Payload deployment system will not include the use of uncontained pyrotechnics (e.g., Frangible
Payload Deployment
nuts).

Payload Propulsion Payload propulsion systems will not be operated in close proximity (within 1 km) of Co-Payload(s)

The following materials are not to be used on Payload hardware:

• cadmium parts
• cadmium-plated parts
Prohibited Materials
• zinc plating
• mercury, compounds containing mercury
• pure tin or tin electroplate (except when alloyed with lead, antimony, or bismuth)

All silicone rubber or RTV silicones with probability of transfer to Co-Payload(s) or Launch Vehicle
Silicone Sensitivity
hardware will require SpaceX approval, coordination, and notification prior to use

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The use of isolated components or assemblies on a Payload is generally discouraged by SpaceX. However, SpaceX may
allow, on a case-by-case basis, the use of isolators, provided they meet the following additional design requirements.

• Isolated components and assemblies must meet all requirements of this user’s guide, including the
requirement on minimum natural frequency
• Isolators must have all-metallic fail-safe features
• Isolated assemblies must be on a pattern of four or more isolators

See Section 6.7.13 for detailed verification requirements.

The design and test factors in Table 5-6 shall be used for the design and testing of pressure vessels, lines, and other
pressurized components. See Section 6.8 for further detailed verification requirements on pressure vessels and systems.

Table 5-6: Design and Test Factors for Pressure Vessels and Systems
Qualification Test Factors Acceptance Test Factors
Pressure Component Design Safety Factors Must be performed on a dedicated Must be performed on Component
Qualification Component prior to Integration on Flight Unit

US DOT Pressure Vessels Accepted as is per US DOT certification

Yield: 1.5 x MEOP Proof Pressure: 1.5 x MEOP

Non-US DOT Pressure Vessels
Ultimate: 2.0 x MEOP Burst Pressure: 2.0 x MEOP

Yield: 1.5 x MEOP

Lines and Fittings (Dia. ≥ 1.5 in) Not required
Ultimate: 2.5 x MEOP

Yield: 1.5 x MEOP

Lines and Fittings (Dia. < 1.5 in) Not required Proof Pressure: 1.5 x MEOP
Ultimate: 4.0 x MEOP

Valves, Regulators, Cryostats & Yield: 1.5 x MEOP Proof Pressure: 1.5 x MEOP
Other Pressurized Components Ultimate: 2.5 x MEOP Burst Pressure: 2.5 x MEOP

Sealed Containers Yield: 1.5 x MEOP

Not required
(MEOP ≤ 1 atm on orbit) Ultimate: 2.0 x MEOP

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

A pressure vessel is any system containing more than 20,000 J of stored energy (pneumatic and chemical energy) OR
a MEOP greater than 100 PsiD [6.9 barD]. Large, sealed containers that are at atmospheric pressure on the ground are
classified as a pressure vessel if they exceed this energy threshold, because of the pressure difference that develops on-
orbit. Pressure vessel classification and restrictions are shown in Table 5-7.

Table 5-7: Pressure Vessel Classification and Use Restrictions

Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5

All metallic Metallic liner with Metallic liner with Non-metallic liner All composite
composite hoop full composite with full composite pressure vessel (no
overwrap overwrap overwrap metallic liner)
Design AIAA-S-080 AIAA-S-081 AIAA-S-081 AIAA G-082 1 N/A
Standard & (Current approved (Current approved (Current approved (Current approved
Release release) release) release) release)
Restrictions Consult Section 5.5.5 for material compatibility • Use is discouraged
• Some restrictions on fluid eligibility
apply. See Section 5.5.5
1. SpaceX may apply additional requirements beyond those defined in AIAA-G-082. Contact SpaceX for more details.

Pressure vessels that are United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) certified and are operated within their
published limits and working fluids are strongly preferred over custom vessels.

Any pressure vessels that are not US DOT classified require a SpaceX review of qualification and acceptance testing and
must meet the following requirements:

• No Type 2, 3, 4, or 5 pressurized-structure tanks where non-pressure loading makes up more than 15% of
maximum combined flight stress (15% Rule)
• No pressure tanks that require pressure stabilization to hold external structural load
• No additively manufactured tanks. Contact SpaceX for further information
• Pressurization state of the tank must not change between the time that the Payload is mated to Launch Vehicle
hardware and deployment from the Launch Vehicle. Use of HTP is treated separately, see Section 5.5.5
• Pressure vessels must have a contingency pressure relief valve to vent pressure above personnel safe MEOP
while in ground operations
• Qualification must include all testing per applicable AIAA document listed in Table 5-7 based on pressure vessel
type, Section 6.8.3, and AFSPC 91-710 (Section 12). Pressure vessels must hold burst factors of safety on
pressure per applicable AIAA document listed in Table 5-7 based on pressure vessel type, not below factors
defined in Table 5-6 or overall design factors of safety defined in Section 5.1 on all combined loading cases.
Vessels that carry significant loads beyond pressure (do not meet the 15% Rule) must include combined
loading in qualification testing per Section 6.8.3

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

A pressure system is any system that is intended to be pressurized and that does not meet the previous definition of a
pressure vessel. This includes both pressure components like valves, fittings, and lines that have potential to see internal
pressure between Customer delivery and on-orbit deployment. Refer to Table 5-6 for design and test factors.

Other pressurized equipment are components that do not meet the definitions of pressure vessel or pressure systems
but may be pressurized at any point between Customer delivery and on-orbit deployment. This may include, for example,
batteries and cryostats. Sealed containers that are at atmospheric pressure on the ground may also become pressurized
on orbit, because of the pressure difference that develops on-orbit (up to 1 atm). Refer to Table 5-6 for design and test
factors.

Accepted material compatibility and standards are per the following industry accepted design guides:

• Uney, P.E. & Fester, D.A. (1972). Material Compatibility with Space Storable Propellants Design Guidebook.
Martin Marietta Corporation.
• Johnson, H.T. et al (2005). Fire, Explosion, Compatibility, and Safety Hazards of Hydrogen Peroxide (Report No.
NASA TM-2005-213151). National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

SpaceX applies the following restrictions:

• Hypergols usage: All hypergolic propellants are prohibited for use in Type 4 and Type 5 pressure vessels.
• Oxidizers: All oxidizers are prohibited for use in Type 4 and Type 5 pressure vessels. Contact SpaceX for further
information.
• NTO/Titanium usage: Titanium usage in an NTO-wetted application is prohibited.
• Cryogenic propellants: Cryogenic fuels and consumables that require loading post encapsulation is prohibited.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide, otherwise known as High Test Peroxide (HTP) may be used as
propellant but carries additional requirements on design and analysis:
o A propellant tank relief must be provided to protect the propellant tank from excessive pressure due to
HTP decomposition. This relief should be set for no more than 10% above MEOP.
o The propellant tank must have a MEOP that envelopes the max expected pressure after self-pressurization
due to HTP decomposition when the tank is at 32°C, over a 60-day period.
o The relief outlet should be configured such that there is no danger to personnel in case of tank relief.
o The tank, and if so equipped, tank positive expulsion diaphragm, must be compatible with HTP. This
includes any material on the gas-side of the diaphragm, including tank weldment alloys, tank cleaning
agents, etc.
o To minimize the possibility of reactions, all materials that may come in contact with HTP must be cleaned
and passivated, and designs must minimize excessive surface area contact with, and entrapment of, HTP.

Any material combinations outside of this specification require SpaceX approval and may require testing modifications.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The pressure and propellant system must be designed to tolerant a minimum number of credible failures and prevent
an overall system failure or mishap due to inadvertent pressurant and/or propellant release.

• For systems using hypergols, or if a system failure may lead to a catastrophic hazard, the system must have
dual fault tolerance (three inhibits to propellant release). This can be accomplished, for example, through the
use of three valves in series.
• For all other pressure/propellant systems, the system must be at least single fault tolerant (two inhibits to
propellant release). This can be accomplished, for example, through the use of two valves in series.

Inhibits shall be independent and cannot be combined. For example, a single electrical command of two valves in series
is not a dual fault tolerant system.

A burst disk can be used in series with a relief valve to demonstrate two inhibits to pressurant/propellant release.

For further details, please refer to Chapter 3 of AFSPC 91-710.

Solid propulsion ion thrusters are generally acceptable for use and do not have the same restrictions as pressure vessels.
Examples of ion thrusters that use solid propellants include gridded electrostatic ion thrusters and field-emission electric
propulsion (FEEP). All solid propulsion systems require at least one ignition inhibit.

Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs) require SpaceX review. SRMs require at least TWO ignition inhibits and should be
hermetically sealed. Igniters require a Safe/Arm system to protect against accidental firing.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Customers must verify the compatibility of the Payload with the maximum predicted environments defined in Section
4.1. SpaceX will review the Customer’s chosen verification approach as well as test results during Mission integration to
ensure Mission safety. Where possible, verification methods have been adapted from publicly available standards such
as SMC-S-016, GSFC-STD-7000 (GEVS) and other NASA/AIAA standards.

SpaceX allows two approaches to environmental verification testing: Flight Unit Protoqualification Testing and
Unit/Fleet Qualification and Acceptance Testing. The protoflight approach is preferred by SpaceX.

1. Flight Unit Protoqualification and Acceptance (Preferred): The flight unit is subjected to protoqualification test
levels (or the first flight unit if flying a series of identical spacecraft). Follow-on identical units are tested at
acceptance levels (applicable for Cake Topper payloads only). Testing must be performed at the fully integrated
Payload assembly level, even if the Payload consists of multiple smaller Payload Constituents. With this
approach the protoqualification test validates both structural design and workmanship, while allowing for
reduced test factors and durations.

2. Unit/Fleet Qualification and Acceptance: A dedicated qualification unit (not flown), that is identical to the flight
unit (mass simulators, for example, are not allowed) is subjected to testing at qualification levels and every
flight unit is tested to acceptance test levels. The acceptance tests must be performed at the fully integrated
Payload assembly level. With this approach, qualification testing validates the structural design and design
margin while the acceptance test(s) validate workmanship.

Note that for Customers pursuing a static load test for qualification of their primary structure (allowed for Cake Toppers
> 500 kg), a Structural Test Model may be used to qualify the primary load path and verify the quasi-static environment
(the flight model must still be verified to acceptance levels through a sine sweep or other test).

Every Payload flying on a SpaceX Cake Topper Mission must undergo either flight unit protoqualification testing (if
following a protoqualification approach) or acceptance verification testing (if following a unit/fleet qualification and
acceptance approach, or for follow-on identical flight units) at the fully integrated Payload assembly level. SpaceX does
not allow the use of qualification-by-analysis, similarity, or qualification testing on lower levels of assembly as a
standalone method of verification.

The environments verification approach in this section is designed to ensure the safety of Co-Payloads and the Launch
Vehicle. Throughout this user’s guide, tests that are “Advised” are designed to ensure on-orbit health and functionality of
the Payload but are not required in order to fly on a SpaceX Rideshare Mission. Tests that are “Required” must be
completed by the Customer to ensure mission safety through Payload separation.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

For Cake Topper Payloads utilizing a qualified separation system, testing with the separation system installed is not
required. However, Customer-provided GSE is required for testing, to adapt the spacecraft interface to the shaker table.
A diagram of the flight configuration vs. test configuration is shown in Figure 6-1 for customers utilizing a clamp-band
style separation system and Figure 6-2 for customers utilizing a Topper Plate (lightband) configuration. 4-point
configurations may also test with an adapter to the shaker table. Other configurations may be acceptable, upon review.

Figure 6-1: Flight vs. Test Configuration for Cake Toppers using a Clampband Configuration

Figure 6-2: Flight vs. Test Configuration for Cake Toppers using a Topper Plate Configuration
The qualification and suitability of separation systems supplied by SpaceX will be reviewed for the specific Cake Topper
application. For new or unqualified separation systems, please reach out to SpaceX for more information. The separation
system provider must demonstrate complete qualification of their product to SMC-S-016 standards. A qualification and
acceptance plan template can be supplied by SpaceX. All flight separation systems must undergo acceptance and
functional testing, as agreed with SpaceX.

For Payloads designed to be powered OFF during ascent, separation detection circuits must be functionally verified
before and after dynamic tests to ensure that a Payload does not inadvertently activate during ascent. Flight
representative harnesses, connectors, and switches must be installed such that power inhibit verification is flight-like.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Additionally, all Customers must verify that deployable systems, propulsion systems, and unwanted RF emissions are
successfully inhibited while attached to the Launch Vehicle. It is expected for these tests to be coupled with the required
vibration tests referenced in Section 6.5.

For protoflight qualification and acceptance tests performed on the Payload flight unit, test-like-you-fly exceptions MUST
be approved by SpaceX. Test-like-you-fly exceptions include ALL changes from the flight configuration to the test
configuration that are not already accepted in this User’s Guide. This includes flight firmware, software, and other
electrical systems. Rationale for the deviation must be provided to SpaceX. Common examples include:

• Not testing propulsion systems at flight pressure

• Not filling propulsion tanks with reactive propellants during testing
• Deviations in mass, CG, and other physical and dynamic properties (see Section 6.7 for allowed deviations)

The following changes are not considered to be test-like-you-fly exceptions for environmental testing, unless they result
in noncompliance to other sections of this User’s Guide, such as Reworked Fasteners:

• Software changes, as long as these changes do not affect power, deployment timing, and/or inhibit systems
• MLI not present

Limited disassembly of the Payload for functional checkouts after the integrated test is allowed without retest, as long
as disassembly/rework falls in one or more of the following categories:

• Fastened joints that meet the criteria in Section 5.2.1

• Deployment mechanisms that are deployed and reset using fastener-free resettable devices, such as pin pullers
• Deployment mechanisms that are re-assembled after testing and that demonstrate similar workmanship
insensitivity to fasteners, have redundant workmanship controls, or undergo post-reassembly proof testing
• Installation of add-before-flight items, such as fill/drain line caps, connectors and plugs, as long as these items
were present during environmental testing, and suitable secondary retention is demonstrated
• Installation of MLI

If a disassembly is performed that does not meet these requirements, a random vibration re-test to acceptance levels
per Section 6.5 must be performed in all 3 axes for 30 seconds. Workmanship sensitive joints (adhesive, epoxy, brazed,
welded, etc.) require a retest if they are modified after testing. Re-assembly after test must follow the fastener installation
requirements in Section 5.2.1.

Customers must deliver to SpaceX:

• A test approach summary, using the SpaceX test template, including any and all test-like-you-fly exceptions
and deviations from this guide, for review by SpaceX prior to Payload testing, and in accordance with the SOW
• Propulsion system details using the SpaceX test template, for review by SpaceX prior to Payload testing,
according to requirements as specified in Section 6.8 or Section 6.9 if applicable
• Verification results, using the SpaceX test template, including test results and other artifacts per requirements
defined in Section 6, for review by SpaceX in accordance with the SOW. The results must include all new test-
like-you-fly exceptions for approval by SpaceX, including details on test versus flight boundary conditions, and
any hardware not included in the test set up that will be in the flight configuration. If Customer chooses not to
complete any “Advised” tests an acknowledgment of the inherent risks to the Payload incurred by not
completing the “Advised” testing must be included

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure 6-3 provides a decision tree for the verification strategy to pursue, depending on Cake Topper mass class. The
strategy is broadly identical for all mass classes and only differs for verification of medium to high frequency launch
environments (acoustics, random vibe) and methods for verification of the quasi-static environment.

For the verification of these environments, low mass Cake Toppers (under 500 kg) should pursue a random vibration
test verification strategy, while high mass Cake Toppers (over 1,500 kg) should pursue an acoustic test verification
strategy. Cake Toppers in the intermediate mass class (500 to 1,500 kg) should evaluate which environment envelopes
the highest response on components susceptible to medium-to-high frequency vibration or, alternatively, test to both
environments. Environment susceptibility is highly dependent and is a function of the Payload’s architecture, mass,
exposed surface area, components, and component mounting.

Figure 6-3: Cake Topper Verification Decision Tree

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Payload unit testing for Cake Topper Payloads under 500 kg must conform to Table 6-1.

Table 6-1: Payload Unit Test Levels and Durations – Cake Topper Payloads under 500 kg

Unit/Fleet Qualification and Acceptance Approach Flight Unit

REQUIRED Acceptance Protoqualification
Test Qualification Must be performed on fully Must be performed on the 1st
OR Advised
integrated Payload assembly fully integrated Payload
Unit Not Flown Unit Flown Unit Flown

Quasi Static Level: Min 1.25 times the Level: Min 1.0 times the limit Level: Min 1.25 times the
REQUIRED
Load 1 limit load in each of 3 axes load in each of 3 axes limit load in each of 3 axes

Level: Limit Levels x 1.25 Level: Limit Levels x 1.25

Level: Limit Levels x 1.0
Sine Duration: 2 oct./minute Duration: 4 oct./minute
REQUIRED Duration: 4 oct./minute
Vibration sweep rate in each of 3 sweep rate in each of 3
sweep rate in each of 3 axes
axes axes
Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE + 3 dB
Events: 2 times in each of 3 Actuations: 2 times in each
Shock Advised Not Required
axes of 3 axes
OR 2 actuations of device OR 2 actuations of device

Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE Level: MPE + 3 dB

Acoustic Advised
Duration: 2 minutes Duration: 1 minute Duration: 1 minute

Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE Level: MPE + 3 dB

Random
REQUIRED Duration: 2 minutes in each Duration: 1 minute in each Duration: 1 minute in each
Vibration2
of 3 axes of 3 axes of 3 axes
Verification that power
Verification that power Verification that power
Power Inhibit 3 REQUIRED inhibits function as
inhibits function as intended inhibits function as intended
intended
REQUIRED for
Electromagnetic By test: 6 dB EMISM OR By test: 6 dB EMISM OR
Payloads Not required
Compatibility 4 By analysis: 12 dB EMISM By analysis: 12 dB EMISM
Powered ON
Thermal Level: Envelope of MPT and
Level: Acceptance ±10 °C Level: Acceptance ±5 °C
Vacuum and Advised min. range (-24 to 61°C)
Duration: 27 cycles total Duration: 20 cycles total
Thermal Cycle 5 Duration: 14 cycles total

Integrated Leak Level: MEOP per Table 6-10 Level: MEOP per Table 6-10 Level: MEOP per Table 6-10
REQUIRED
Test6 Duration: 5 min Duration: 5 min Duration: 5 min

1. Quasi-static load testing can be achieved through either a sine-burst test or sine vibration (sweep) test.
2. Random vibration must be conducted as a standalone test.
3. Power inhibits must be verified at an integrated level as part of random vibe testing. See Section 6.7.7.
4. EMISM (6 dB by test, 12 dB by analysis) is already included in Table 4-9. See Section 6.7.7 for further guidance on electromagnetic compatibility
verification.
5. Thermal cycles can be accrued as a combination of thermal cycling in air and thermal vacuum. It is recommended to include at least four cycles of
thermal vacuum unless strong rationale exists that the Payload is not sensitive to vacuum.
6. Additional requirements apply to individual pressure vessels and systems, see Section 6.8. Pressure Systems that do not meet material compatibility
requirements specified in Section 5.5.5 must contact SpaceX for specific leak testing requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Payload unit testing for Cake Topper Payloads between 500 kg and 1,500 kg must conform to Table 6-2.

Table 6-2: Payload Unit Test Levels and Durations – Cake Topper Payloads 500 kg to 1,500 kg

Unit/Fleet Qualification and Acceptance Approach Flight Unit

REQUIRED OR Acceptance Protoflight Qualification
Test Qualification Must be performed on fully Must be performed on the 1st fully
Advised
integrated Payload assembly integrated Payload
Unit Not Flown Unit Flown Unit Flown

Level: Min 1.25 times the Level: Min 1.0 times the Level: Min 1.25 times the
Static Load 1 REQUIRED
limit load in each of 3 axes limit load in each of 3 axes limit load in each of 3 axes

Level: Limit Levels x 1.25 Level: Limit Levels x 1.0

Level: Limit Levels x 1.25
Sine Duration: 2 oct./minute Duration: 4 oct./minute
REQUIRED Duration: 4 oct./minute
Vibration sweep rate in each of 3 sweep rate in each of 3
sweep rate in each of 3 axes
axes axes
Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE + 3 dB
Events: 2 times in each of Actuations: 2 times in each
Shock Advised Not Required
3 axes of 3 axes
OR 2 actuations of device OR 2 actuations of device

See Section 6.6 Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE Level: MPE + 3 dB

Acoustic
and Figure 6-3 2 Duration: 2 minutes Duration: 1 minute Duration: 1 minute
to determine
REQUIRED Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE Level: MPE + 3 dB
Random
tests2 Duration: 2 minutes in each Duration: 1 minute in each Duration: 1 minute in each of
Vibration
of 3 axes of 3 axes 3 axes
Verification that power Verification that power
Verification that power
Power Inhibit 3 REQUIRED inhibits function as inhibits function as
inhibits function as intended
intended intended
REQUIRED for
Electromagnetic By test: 6 dB EMISM OR By test: 6 dB EMISM OR
Payloads Not required
Compatibility 4 By analysis: 12 dB EMISM By analysis: 12 dB EMISM
Powered ON
Thermal Level: Envelope of MPT and
Level: Acceptance ±10 °C Level: Acceptance ±5 °C
Vacuum and Advised min. range (-24 to 61°C)
Duration: 27 cycles total Duration: 20 cycles total
Thermal Cycle 5 Duration: 14 cycles total
Integrated Level: MEOP per Table Level: MEOP per Table
Level: MEOP per Table 6-10
Pressure Leak REQUIRED 6-10 6-10
Duration: 5 min
Test6 Duration: 5 min Duration: 5 min
1. Quasi-static load testing can be achieved through either a sine vibration (sweep), static load, sine burst, or a combination of one or more tests. Static
load testing may be conducted on a separate qualification model, even if the main testing approach is protoflight qualification.
2. Random vibration shaker testing is often aggressive when it comes to larger spacecraft. Therefore, the Customer must determine whether the
acoustic or random vibration flight environment is enveloping of the spacecraft responses that are not screened by other tests. See Section 6.6 on
methodology for evaluation and selection of the correct test. If the outcome of this evaluation shows that the random vibration is enveloping of
spacecraft responses, then a standalone random vibration test is REQUIRED and an acoustic test is Advised. Vice-versa, if the outcome of this
evaluation shows that acoustic test is sufficiently enveloping of random vibration levels for main spacecraft responses, then the Customer may
pursue an acoustic test as an alternative.
3. Power inhibits must be verified at an integrated level as part of random vibe or acoustic testing, see Section 6.7.7.
4. EMISM (6 dB by test, 12 dB by analysis) is already included in Table 4-9. See Section 6.7.7 for further guidance on electromagnetic compatibility
verification.
5. Thermal cycles can be accrued as a combination of thermal cycling in air and thermal vacuum. It is recommended to include at least four cycles of
thermal vacuum unless strong rationale exists that the Payload is not sensitive to vacuum.
6. Additional requirements apply to individual pressure vessels and systems, see Section 6.8. Pressure Systems that do not meet material
compatibility requirements specified in Section 5.5.5 must contact SpaceX for specific leak testing requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Payload unit testing for Cake Topper Payloads above 1,500 kg must conform to Table 6-3.

Table 6-3: Payload Unit Test Levels and Durations – Cake Topper Payloads above 1,500 kg

Unit/Fleet Qualification and Acceptance Approach Flight Unit

REQUIRED OR Acceptance Protoflight Qualification
Test Qualification Must be performed on fully Must be performed on the 1st
Advised
integrated Payload assembly fully integrated Payload
Unit Not Flown Unit Flown Unit Flown

Level: Min 1.25 times the Level: Min 1.0 times the Level: Min 1.25 times the
Static Load 1 REQUIRED
limit load in each of 3 axes limit load in each of 3 axes limit load in each of 3 axes

Level: Limit Levels x 1.25 Level: Limit Levels x 1.0 Level: Limit Levels x 1.25
Sine Duration: 2 oct./minute Duration: 4 oct./minute Duration: 4 oct./minute
REQUIRED
Vibration sweep rate in each of 3 sweep rate in each of 3 sweep rate in each of 3
axes axes axes
Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE + 3 dB
Events: 2 times in each of 3 Actuations: 2 times in each
Shock Advised Not Required
axes of 3 axes
OR 2 actuations of device OR 2 actuations of device

Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE Level: MPE + 3 dB

Acoustic REQUIRED
Duration: 2 minutes Duration: 1 minute Duration: 1 minute

Level: MPE + 3 dB Level: MPE Level: MPE + 3 dB

Random ANALYSIS
Duration: 2 minutes in each Duration: 1 minute in each Duration: 1 minute in each
Vibration REQUIRED2
of 3 axes of 3 axes of 3 axes
Verification that power
Verification that power Verification that power
Power Inhibit 3 REQUIRED inhibits function as
inhibits function as intended inhibits function as intended
intended
REQUIRED for
Electromagnetic By test: 6 dB EMISM OR By test: 6 dB EMISM OR
Payloads Not required
Compatibility 4 By analysis: 12 dB EMISM By analysis: 12 dB EMISM
Powered ON
Thermal Level: Envelope of MPT and
Level: Acceptance ±10 °C Level: Acceptance ±5 °C
Vacuum and Advised min. range (-24 to 61°C)
Duration: 27 cycles total Duration: 20 cycles total
Thermal Cycle 5 Duration: 14 cycles total
Integrated Level: MEOP per Table
Level: MEOP per Table 6-10 Level: MEOP per Table 6-10
Pressure Leak REQUIRED 6-10
Duration: 5 min Duration: 5 min
Test6 Duration: 5 min
1. Static load testing can be achieved through either a sine vibration (sweep) or static load or a combination of these tests. Static load testing may be
conducted on a separate qualification model, even if the main testing approach is protoflight qualification.
2. Customer to evaluate the random vibe analysis environment by analysis, using the component-by-component analysis methodology described in
Section 6.7.6.2.
3. Power inhibits must be verified at an integrated level as part of acoustic testing. See Section 6.7.7.
4. EMISM (6 dB by test, 12 dB by analysis) is already included in Table 4-9. See Section 6.7.7 for further guidance on electromagnetic compatibility
verification.
5. Thermal cycles can be accrued as a combination of thermal cycling in air and thermal vacuum. It is recommended to include at least four cycles of
thermal vacuum unless strong rationale exists that the Payload is not sensitive to vacuum.
6. Additional requirements apply to individual pressure vessels and systems, see Section 6.8. Pressure Systems that do not meet material compatibility
requirements specified in Section 5.5.5 must contact SpaceX for specific leak testing requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Purpose: This section details the methodology for determining whether Cake Toppers in the 500 kg – 1,500 kg mass
class are driven by the acoustic or random vibe environment (see Table 6-2); in other words, to determine whether an
acoustic or random vibe test is sufficient to qualify and screen the Cake Topper’s secondary interfaces and components
for flight.

Verification: Customers must list the method selected, provide details on the methodology pursued, and provide the final
results. Note the levels may be modified (increased) to envelope one or the other environment. In other words, Customers
may notch up, but may not go below flight level, with test margin.

Method A: Response Comparison Method B: Response Comparison Method C: Test to Both

Method
by Test by Analysis or Hybrid Analysis/Test Environments
Compare component responses
Compare component responses from acoustic and random vibe
Method Test to both random vibe and
from an acoustic and low-level high-fidelity analysis or an acoustic
overview acoustic environments
random vibe test test and random vibe high-fidelity
analysis

Method A
1. Select relevant interfaces and/or secondary components of interest; for example:
• Net CG acceleration of an avionics box
• Force at mounting interface between Cake Topper structure and a deployable appendage
• Acceleration at the center of a large solar array panel
2. Exclude components with a cumulative acceleration/force response > 95% at 100 Hz (screened by sine
vibration testing)
3. Conduct a base-driven vibration low level test to determine transfer function from base input to selected
component locations
4. Compute predicted random vibe responses from flight random vibe environment at the locations established
from Steps 1 and 2
5. Conduct an acoustic test; measure and/or correlate responses at same locations
6. Calculate equivalent rms force/acceleration at each location, excluding contribution from 0-100 Hz band
7. Compare equivalent rms force/acceleration at each location and determine overall which environment
envelopes responses

Method B
1. Select relevant interfaces and/or secondary components of interest, for example:
• Net CG acceleration of an avionics box
• Force at mounting interface between Cake Topper structure and a deployable appendage
• Acceleration at the center of a large solar array panel
2. Exclude components with a cumulative acceleration/force response > 95% at 100 Hz (screened by sine
vibration testing)
3. Compute predicted random vibe responses from flight random vibe environments, using a high-fidelity,
correlated random vibe model
4. Conduct an acoustic test; measure and/or correlate responses at same locations, OR use a high-fidelity
acoustics analysis to predict the responses at same locations
5. Calculate equivalent rms force/acceleration at each location, excluding contribution from 0-100 Hz band
6. Compare equivalent rms force/acceleration at each location and determine overall which environment
envelopes responses

Method C
• Both acoustic and random vibe tests are conducted.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Purpose: To ensure that the payload’s elastic natural frequencies do not couple with the Launch Vehicle.

Verification: Testing is REQUIRED to verify that the Payload’s elastic natural frequencies are above 15 Hz in the lateral
directions and 25 Hz in the axial direction (or over 40 Hz in all directions for Payloads < 500 kg). This includes any isolated
equipment. Verification must be achieved through a low-level sine sweep before and after full level environmental testing
to determine modal frequencies and assess any changes as a result of full level testing (Table 6-4).

Table 6-4: Low-Level Sine Sweep Acceptance Criteria

Low-Level Sine Sweep

Level 0.1 g (minimum)

Sweep rate 3 oct/min or slower

Test axes 1 XPL, YPL, ZPL

• Lateral modes above 15 Hz; Axial mode above 25 Hz (Payloads > 500 kg)
• All modes above 40 Hz (Payloads < 500 kg)
Success criteria
• < 5% shift in first mode frequency1
• < 30% shift in first mode amplitude of response1
1 These are general requirements. Customer to determine if more stringent criteria are required for particular payload.

Purpose: To verify that the Payload’s structural load path and interfaces are qualified to the flight environments and to
ensure structural integrity of the Payload to Launch Vehicle interface and safety of Co-Passengers.

Verification: Testing is REQUIRED to the quasi-static load test levels and durations defined in Section 4.1.2 (flight
environments) and Section 6.5 (test factors). Quasi-static load test requirements can be achieved through either a static
load test, sine burst test, OR a sine sweep test. See Section 6.5 for which are permitted per Cake Topper mass class.
The test levels should be derived from combined axial and lateral loading to meet the required interface forces/line
loading.

Verification of quasi static loading using random vibration is not permitted. An individual test in three axes must be
performed. See Table 6-5 for detailed guidance and acceptance criteria for each accepted method.

Table 6-5: Quasi Static Load Verification Test Requirements

Criteria Sine Burst Test Sine Sweep Test Static Test

• Sine burst input frequency < 2/3 Sweep rates as specified Hold at maximum load for
Test parameters of Payload first mode frequency in Table 6-1 for sine 30 s or sufficient time to
• 5 cycles at full level minimum vibration collect data
Main structural load path
present and identical to
Test configuration Fully integrated payload Fully integrated payload
maximum extent possible
to flight configuration
Mass difference between
Max 2% N/A
flight and test
CG difference between Axial direction: Max 5% 1;
flight and test Lateral directions: Max 20% OR Max 10 mm
Success Measured or calculated acceleration at CG achieves target Measured loads achieve
criteria acceleration target loads
1. Significant deviation between as tested and flight CG locations and Payload mass may result in underqualified primary load paths and interfaces. A
lower CG and/or mass in test generally results in an undertest in lateral directions. Customers should aim in the test to replicate as close as possible

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the CG position and mass of the flight article. If the CG or mass is outside the limit specified, Customers must account for CG and mass differences
in test and adjust levels and/or use fluid simulants to represent propellant.

Purpose: To ensure Payloads are compatible with loads on primary and secondary structures with modes < 100 Hz.

Verification: Testing is REQUIRED to the sine vibration test levels and durations defined in Table 6-1, Table 6-2, or Table
6-3 in accordance with the MPE defined in Section 4.1.3. Any notching must be pre-coordinated with SpaceX for approval
at least 2 weeks in advance of testing.

IMPORTANT: Mission-specific sine vibration levels, including Output Transfer Matrices (OTMs) from Coupled Loads
Analysis (CLA) are not available until L-2 months due to the Rideshare Program configuration timeline. Therefore, Cake
Topper Payloads are expected to test, with appropriate test factors, to the enveloping values as described in this section.
No secondary notching is allowed. Final CLA results will only validate test levels of all hardware and spacecraft on the
mission and will not be available prior to SC testing.

Purpose: To ensure Payloads are compatible with shock environments experienced during flight.

Verification: Testing or Analysis is ADVISED to the shock test levels and durations defined in Table 6-1, Table 6-2, or
Table 6-3 in accordance with the MPE defined in Section 4.1.5. Alternatively, Customers may show compliance via
analysis of all shock-critical components to the shock levels defined in this section.

Verification by Analysis must show that all shock-sensitive components are qualified to a higher level than the MPE
below. Attenuation propagated to the component’s location on the spacecraft is accepted, and it is the Customer’s
responsibility to show the attenuation analysis.

Customers are ultimately responsible for verifying compliance to the MPE defined in Section 4.1.5. To ensure Mission
safety for Co-Payloads, separation systems provided by the Customer must be approved by SpaceX (reference Section
6.1.1).

Purpose: To ensure Payloads are compatible with acoustic environments inside the Launch Vehicle fairing. To ensure
structural integrity of the Payload during ascent and to verify power inhibit systems. Exposure to the acoustic vibration
environment ensures that secondary structures, Payload Constituents, large surfaces, and other components are
exposed to flight loads plus margin

Verification:

Payloads > 1,500 kg: Testing is REQUIRED to the acoustic test levels and durations defined in Table 6-1 in accordance
with the MPE defined in Section 4.1.4.

Payloads < 500 kg: Testing is ADVISED to the acoustic test levels and durations defined in Table 6-3 in accordance with
the MPE defined in Section 4.1.4.

Payloads between 500 and 1,500 kg: Per Table 6-2, Customer to determine whether testing is REQUIRED or Advised per
methodology outlined in Section 6.6. Testing will be in accordance with the MPE defined in Section 4.1.4.

Acoustic vibration testing may be used to verify that power inhibit systems function as intended.

IMPORTANT: In order to verify that power inhibit systems function as expected, all necessary power components MUST
be fully integrated and in a flight-like state. Batteries must be in their flight-like charge state and any RBF/GSE inhibits
must be removed. Verification testing must show that power to deployable and other secondary devices was
successfully inhibited from a mechanical separation signal, and not because of other factors such as software delays.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

If a Payload is designed to be Powered OFF during ascent, the test must additionally show that power to the Payload
and any transmitting devices was successfully inhibited.

Purpose: To ensure structural integrity of the Payload during flight dynamic events and to verify power inhibit systems.
Exposure to the random vibration environment ensures that primary and secondary structures, Payload Constituents,
and smaller components are exposed to flight loads plus margin. This ensures Mission and Co-Payload safety.

Verification:

Payloads < 500 kg: Testing is REQUIRED to the random vibration test levels and durations defined Table 6-1 in
accordance with the MPE defined in Section 4.1.6.

Payloads > 1,500 kg: Integrated testing is discouraged. Component evaluation/analysis is REQUIRED per Section 6.7.6.2.

Payloads between 500 and 1,500 kg: Per Table 6-2, Customer to determine whether testing is REQUIRED or Advised per
methodology outlined in Section 6.6. Testing will be in accordance with the MPE defined in Section 4.1.6.

Notching: In verifying compliance to this requirement during integrated testing, notching of the primary mode of the
Payload to avoid an over-test is acceptable. Notching is only permitted to prevent the Payload from exceeding the quasi-
static load levels defined in Section 4.1.2. SpaceX recommends the use of the following methods for notching, in
descending order of preference:

1. Interface force limiting (preferred); for example, using triaxial force gages mounted at the spacecraft interface.
If the gages are below the Payload interface, the additional mass above the force gage must be accounted for
2. Acceleration response limiting using a flight correlated analytical model
3. Manual notching using limits on bandwidth as shown in Table 6-6 and Figure 6-1

The use of these methods will be reviewed by SpaceX along with final report documentation. Notching must derive force
limits per NASA-HDBK-7004C. The following constraints must be followed when using the Semi-Empirical Method:

• Minimum interface forces as derived from the Quasi-Static Levels defined in 4.1.2
• C2 ≥ 5
• Primary mode maximum notch depth less than 10 dB
• Notching to protect secondary structure or constituent responses is not permitted because that would result
in an under-test as related to flight environments. A Mission-specific analysis will not be provided by SpaceX

Table 6-6: Manual Notch Limits (Primary Mode ONLY)

Primary Mode Frequency fc (Hz) Maximum Notch Bandwidth (Hz) Maximum Notch Floor Width (Hz)
20 – 40 10 5
41 – 80 20 10
81 – 160 40 20
161 – 320 80 40
321 – 700 100 50
700 – 2000 Notching not allowed

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure 6-4: Manual Notch Limit Definitions (Primary Mode ONLY)

Random vibration testing may be used to verify that power inhibit systems function as intended.

IMPORTANT: In order to verify that power inhibit systems function as expected, all necessary power components MUST
be fully integrated and in a flight-like state. Batteries must be in their flight-like charge state and any RBF/GSE inhibits
must be removed. Verification testing must show that power to deployable and other secondary devices was
successfully inhibited from a mechanical separation signal, and not because of other factors such as software delays.
If a Payload is designed to be Powered OFF during ascent, the test must additionally show that power to the Payload
and any transmitting devices was successfully inhibited.

Applicability: Band splitting may be used as part of the integrated random vibration test on a case-by-case basis. This is
only permitted if the test facility requires a reduction in interface loads to meet the vibration shaker table force limitations.
Band splitting must follow the following rules:

• Maximum 3 bands
• Minimum 1/3 Octave overlap between bands
• No band splitting at or near a Payload primary mode
• The unit must be exposed to minimum workmanship levels (0.004 g²/Hz) in every test. Hence every test
needs to have a frequency range of 20 – 2,000Hz, with one side of the band being reduced to minimum
workmanship while the other is being tested to the full levels
• All tests must be performed with the same unit
• Qualification or protoqualification tests should target reaching the random vibration MPE grms as defined in
Section 4.1.6

Applicability: Component-by-component evaluation of the random vibration environment is only required for Payloads
that do not have an integrated random vibe test or are not qualified through an integrated acoustic test.

Method:
1. Identify components susceptible to random vibration and/or near the interface plane and their in-plane and out-
of-plane qualification levels. Components that are effectively screened by integrated tests such as sine vibe or
acoustics should not be included in this assessment. Use the SpaceX-supplied environmental test template to
perform the assessment.
2. Compare each component’s qualification level with the Random vibe qualification levels (MPE + 3dB), as
constructed from the limit levels in Section 4.1.6, OR the Component’s qualification level with the predicted
component response from the input Random vibe qualification levels (MPE + 3dB). Identify deviations in the
SpaceX-supplied environmental test template.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Purpose: To ensure that the Payload remains powered off up until Payload separation and any deployable/transmission
systems are isolated from sources of power.

Verification: Testing is REQUIRED as part of the random vibration test to verify that power inhibit systems function as
intended. Evidence must be provided that shows no inadvertent power-ups and that isolated systems remain isolated
during random vibe. This evidence could include, for example, boot logs or oscilloscope data.

IMPORTANT: In order to verify that power inhibit systems function as expected, all necessary power components MUST
be fully integrated and in a flight-like state. Batteries must be in their flight-like charge state and any RBF/GSE inhibits
must be removed. Verification testing must show that power to the deployable and secondary devices was successfully
inhibited from a mechanical separation signal, and not because of other factors such as software delays. If a Payload is
designed to be Powered OFF during ascent, the test must additionally show that power to the Payload and any
transmitting devices was successfully inhibited.

Purpose: To ensure that Launch Vehicle and launch site radiated emissions do not compromise the electrical integrity
of the Payload, and to ensure that Payload emissions do not compromise safety of the Launch Vehicle or of Co-Payloads.

Verification: Testing or verification by analysis is ADVISED to the electromagnetic compatibility test levels and durations
defined in Table 6-1 in accordance with the environments defined in Section 4.1.7.

Verification by test may be performed in-house per MIL-STD-461 with supporting test documentation or obtained from
an IEC-17025 accredited (or equivalent) test facility. Verification by analysis must provide electromagnetic circuit and
wiring emissions analysis. Payloads that require power during ascent must inform SpaceX prior to launch services
agreement (LSA) finalization.

Purpose: To limit the differential pressure experienced by the Payload to ensure Mission and Co-Payload safety.

Verification: Customers are ADVISED to conduct a venting analysis to the environment detailed in Section 4.1.8.

Purpose: To ensure Payloads are compatible with the thermal environments experienced during flight.

Verification: Testing is ADVISED to the combined thermal vacuum and thermal cycle test levels and durations defined in
Table 6-1 in accordance with the environments defined in Section 4.1.9.

Purpose: To ensure that any rework conducted post environmental test verification does not compromise the structural
integrity of the Payload or the safety of other Co-Payloads.

Verification: Customers are REQUIRED to provide details on all reworked fasteners in the final verification test report.
Reworked fasteners that comply with Section 5.2.1 do not require prior SpaceX approval for rework but need to be
reported in the test report. Customers should provide the following information:

• Overview of all post-test rework, clearly separating out and indicating which reworked fasteners are compliant
to this User Guide and which are not (SpaceX approval required)
• For each, or group of, reworked fasteners installed in a blind hole, provide fastener diameter, hole depth
measurement, fastener length measurement during installation, a close-up photo of the reworked fastener(s),
secondary retention method(s), and schematic or photo showing general location of reworked fastener(s)

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

• For each, or group of, reworked fasteners installed in a through hole, provide fastener diameter, grip length and
protrusion measurement, a close-up photo of the reworked fastener(s), and accompanying schematic or photo
showing general location of reworked fastener on the Payload

Purpose: To ensure that the Payload does not contaminate Co-Payloads, Launch Vehicle hardware, or cleanroom
environments.

Verification: Customers are REQUIRED to provide a Payload contamination report. A complete vacuum-exposed non-
metallic materials list including quantities (surface area or mass) will be delivered to SpaceX for review. Materials shall
be classified according to Table 6-7.

Table 6-7: Non-Metallic Materials Classification

Criteria Additional criteria Rationale Code

RML < 1.0% and CVCM < 0.1% None, complies to requirement -
RML < 3.0% and CVCM < 0.1% Exposed area < 2 in² A
RML > 3.0% or CVCM > 0.1% Exposed area < 0.25 in² B
Any Meets thermal vacuum stability requirements in configuration C
Any Material in hermetically sealed container (leak rate ≤ 10-4 sccs) D
Any Other rationale, customer to add additional slide with rationale E

Purpose: To ensure the structural integrity of isolated equipment on a Payload.

Verification: Customers using isolated assemblies are REQUIRED to conduct additional testing. Sine burst and sine vibe
are the only two tests allowed for quasi-static load verification.

The “Isolated System” is defined as inclusive of the component or assembly being isolated and the isolators themselves.
If the Isolated System is part of a CubeSat dispenser, it is acceptable to use CubeSat mass dummies for testing (if
applicable).

Figure 6-5: Isolated System Additional Testing

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Purpose: To verify that pressure systems and components are qualified for flight and do not pose a hazard to ground
personnel, Co-Passengers, and the Launch Vehicle.

Verification: For all pressurized systems, Customers are REQUIRED to provide the following evidence:

1. Document detailing system design criteria, MEOP derivation for flight and ground cases for all pressurized
components, features and pressure vessels, including valve set points and relief device sizing
2. System schematic using standard P&ID symbols and an (excel) tabulated parts list, including valves, reliefs,
transducers, and reference designators for all parts
3. Qualification and acceptance testing for each component of the pressure system and the overall system
qualification strategy (see Sections 5.5 and 6.8 for further details and requirements)
4. Document detailing combined system test-like-you-fly exceptions between test and flight including rationale

Purpose: To verify that pressure system materials are compatible with stored fluids, including propellants.

Verification: All Customers are REQUIRED to a comprehensive list of pressure system materials for a compatibility
assessment and comply with requirements as detailed in Section 5.5.5. The list must include:

• All pressure system materials within the pressure vessel, and all other pressurized components, AND
• All working fluids, processing fluids, and expected/potential by-product fluids
• For systems using HTP, the Customer shall additionally provide an analysis predicting the decay rate and
subsequent propellant tank pressure increase over a 60-day period. The analysis shall be performed assuming
a nominal storage temp of 24°C and a maximum allowable storage temp of 32°C. Customer must provide list
of materials that may contact HTP (including gas-side of positive expulsion diaphragm, if used), and must
provide evidence that these materials are compatible with HTP

Purpose: To verify that pressure vessels are qualified for flight and do not pose a hazard to ground personnel, Co-
Passengers, and the Launch Vehicle.

Verification: Customers using pressure vessels are REQUIRED to provide a) the pressure vessel classification type as
detailed in Section 5.5.1 and b) the evidence shown in Table 6-8.

To decide on the correct verification strategy for pressure vessels:

• Step 1. Identify whether the vessel is US DOT or non-US DOT.

• Step 2. If non-US DOT, determine whether the vessel meets the 15% rule. The 15% rule seeks to address whether
most of the combined flight stresses in the vessel arise from flight pressure (MEOP), rather than mechanical,
external, and/or environmental limit level loads (See Figure 6-6).
• Step 3. Build the corresponding qualification and acceptance testing strategy from Table 6-8, Table 6-9, and
Section 5.5.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Figure 6-6: The 15% Rule, Explained

Table 6-8: Verification Requirements for Pressure Vessels
Non-US DOT Pressure Vessels Non-US DOT Pressure Vessels
US DOT Pressure vessels
that Meet the 15% Rule that do not Meet the 15% Rule
Either: Quasi-static and random
• A certificate of conformance from vibration qualification of the
vendor stating vessel maximum pressure vessel while
design pressure (MDP), including Combined structural loading pressurized to 1.25 x MEOP in
any special permits on the bottle analysis for flight loads flight-like mounting (preferred
design from vendor including all loading and approach)
Documentation
• A picture of the bottle including material assumptions
the mounting demonstrating a demonstrating that the pressure OR: analysis report
mounting scheme that does not vessel meets the 15% rule demonstrating that the 15%
induce significant loading into the rule is met if MEOP is
bottle substituted with qualified burst
capability

• proof test
• vibration test
• pressure cycle test
Qualification N/A
• leak test per Table 6-9
• burst test
• inspections

• proof test
Acceptance N/A • leak test per Table 6-9
• inspections

Pressure system tests must take proper precautions to ensure safety. Documentation must be submitted to SpaceX in
order to evaluate conformance. All non-conforming material compatibility pressure vessels must contact SpaceX for
special leak test requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Table 6-9: Leak Test Requirements for Pressure Vessels

Pressure Vessel Leak Test Requirements

Pressure MEOP
• If flight fluid is gaseous helium: 100% Helium
Test fluid
• If flight fluid is not gaseous helium or is a liquid: 100% Nitrogen, if working fluid has a higher molecular weight

Fully submerge pressurized vessel in water

Method Verification: Continuous video of full water surface and each fitting and connection individually (acceptable for video
to show multiple areas within the minimum duration)

Success
No bubbles (Max 10-4 sccs leak rate)
criteria

Min
1 hour
Duration

Purpose: To verify that fully integrated pressure systems, including propulsion systems, do not pose a hazard to ground
personnel, Co-Passengers, and the Launch Vehicle.

Verification: Pressure vessel and fully integrated pressure system testing is REQUIRED according to one or more
methods shown in Table 6-10. Leak testing must be verified, at a minimum post environmental testing of the integrated
Payload. Note, the helium sniffer method is only available for integrated payloads that use inert, non-hazardous
propellants or pressurants, such as Helium, Argon, etc.

Pressure system tests must take proper precautions to ensure safety. Documentation must be submitted to SpaceX in
order to evaluate conformance. All non-conforming material compatibility pressure vessels (see Section 5.5.5) must
contact their SpaceX representative for special leak test requirements.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Table 6-10: Test Methods and Requirements for Integrated Payloads

Method Snoop Test Method Vacuum Chamber Method Helium Sniffer Test Method
Integrated Payloads with any Integrated Payloads with any Only Integrated Payloads with non-
Applies to
permissible propellant permissible propellant hazardous propellants/pressurants
Pressure MEOP
• If flight fluid is gaseous • If flight fluid is gaseous • If flight fluid is gaseous
helium: 100% Helium helium: 100% Helium helium: 100% Helium
• If flight fluid is a gas that isn’t • If flight fluid is a gas that isn’t • If flight fluid is a gas that isn’t
Test gas gaseous helium: Flight gas, gaseous helium or if flight gaseous helium or if flight
100% Nitrogen, or 100% fluid is a liquid: 100% Helium fluid is a liquid: 100% Helium
Helium
• If flight fluid is a liquid: 100%
Nitrogen or 100% Helium
1. Charge article with test gas at 1. Draw a hard vacuum around the 1. Seal article from surrounding
known concentration and at payload (10-3 Torr or less) environment
required pressure 2. Charge article with 100% Helium 2. Charge article with 100% Helium
2. Coat all fittings and connections at required pressure at required pressure
with Snoop 3. Maintain pressure for at least 30 3. Do not zero/tare the detector
3. Inspect for bubbles min (maintain tracer gas background
Method 4. Collect readings. Readings reading)
Verification:
should not vary by more than 4. Collect measurements
Close-up video of each fitting and 10% of max range over 5 min
Verification:
connection individually (acceptable (max variation 1 x 10-5 sccs)
for video to show multiple areas of Reading that meets success criteria
Verification:
the system within the minimum
duration) Reading that meets success criteria

Success No bubbles Max leak rate 1 x 10-4 sccs of helium Max leak rate 1 x 10-4 sccs of helium
criteria

Min 5 min (total over all fittings) Readings over 5 min Readings over 5 min
Duration

Purpose: To verify that solid propulsion systems do not pose a hazard to ground personnel, Co-Passengers, and the
Launch Vehicle.

Verification: For all solid propulsion systems, Customers are REQUIRED to provide the following evidence:

1. Description/Schematic of the propulsion system and propellant used

2. Details and verification of the ignition system and inhibit(s). If ignition is controlled by Payload power,
demonstration of the electrical ignition inhibit may be combined with the verification of Payload power inhibit
(see Section 6.7.6)
3. If system is hermetically sealed, workmanship details of the sealing method

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Falcon vehicles provide electrical connectivity between the Payload and Customer-provided Electrical Ground Support
Equipment (EGSE) prior to launch, as well as in-flight separation device command and separation monitoring. Table 7-1
summarizes the standard electrical offering for Cake Topper Payloads.

Table 7-1: Electrical Interface Summary

937mm, 1194mm, or 1666 mm 15” or 24” Circular Interface
Signal Type 4-point Interface Offering
Clampband Offering (Topper Plate) Offering
Up to 2x 61-pin connectors
Ground-side Umbilical Up to 4x 15-pin connectors Contact SpaceX
See Appendix A
1x primary and redundant 1x primary and redundant Up to 4x primary and redundant
Separation Command
deploy signal deploy signal deploy signals

For SpaceX-provided separation systems, one primary and one secondary command are used for each actuation.
Please contact SpaceX for more details.

Breakwire channels are used to determine separation status of the Payload Constituents from the Launch Vehicle.
Breakwires are organized into two categories: “PL-side breakwires”, which are used by the Launch Vehicle to detect
separation, and “LV-side breakwires”, which are used by the Payload to detect separation. This is illustrated in Figure 7-1.

SpaceX Launch Vehicle

Figure 7-1: Illustration of Breakwire Channel Categories

A minimum of one PL-side breakwire is recommended to be used for each deployment from the Launch Vehicle, SpaceX
will evaluate exceptions on a case-by-case basis. There are no restrictions from SpaceX on the number of LV-side
breakwires requested by the Customer.

PL-side breakwire channels must transition from a low-resistance state to a high-resistance state, or vice-versa. Table
7-2 defines the required properties of each state.

Table 7-2: PL-Side Breakwire Resistance Requirements

PL-Side Breakwire State Resistance Requirement

Low-resistance state <200 Ω
High-resistance state >8 kΩ

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It is acceptable for either loopback circuits or separation switches to be used for PL-side and LV-side breakwires. The
final properties of the PL-side breakwire circuit(s), including the expected transition during deployment, will be captured
as part of the Payload-specific ICD.

The Falcon vehicle provides up to 8 PL-side breakwire channels for the Cake Topper region. Additional breakwire
channels can be accommodated as a nonstandard service; please contact SpaceX for details. Customer may request
any number of LV-side breakwire loops at a separation connector.

As a standard service, Falcon launch vehicles provide up to two in-flight disconnect electrical interface points located at
the payload separation plane. See Appendix A for umbilical locations. MIL-C-81703 connectors are strongly
recommended to encourage schedule compatibility. A list of example in-flight disconnect connectors is shown below in
Table 7-3. Falcon is compatible with many connectors outside of this list. Please contact SpaceX if you have questions
regarding use of a specific connector.
Table 7-3: Example In-Flight Disconnect Connectors
Part Number (Payload-side) Part Number (LV-side) Number of Electrical Contacts
DBAS-70-61-0SN DBAS-79-61G-0PN 61
DBAS-70-61-0SY DBAS-79-61G-0PY 61

All customer electrical interfaces, including EGSE interfaces, will be defined as part of the Payload-specific ICD.

The build responsibility for the harnesses between the Standard Offering Interface and Payload will be specified as part
of the Payload-specific ICD.

The Falcon systems accommodate electrical connectivity between Customer EGSE and the payload during most
processing and integration activities. Table 7-4 summarizes the availability of interfaces during standard processing and
integration activities. Customers may connect directly between their EGSE and their payload during payload processing
operations. Electrical interfaces will not be available during SpaceX adapter mate, encapsulation, LV integration, and
rollout operations. However, between these steps the Customer will be able to interface with the Payload. Customers
may supply separate EGSE for the PPF and pad operations or may relocate EGSE from the PPF to the pad.
Table 7-4: Payload Electrical Interface Connectivity
Phase Interface Connection
In PPF (payload processing) Customer cables directly to payload
In PPF (adapter mate and None – SpaceX is connecting the payload to the flight adapter harness; SpaceX will provide
encapsulation) payload to PAF connection cables
In PPF (encapsulated) Customer cables to PPF junction box adapter cable
Transport to hangar None – mobile
In hangar (pre-integration) Customer cables to hangar junction box
In hangar (LV integration) None – SpaceX is connecting the flight adapter harness to the second-stage flight harness
In hangar (on transporter-erector) Customer cables to hangar junction box (J-box) adapter cable
Rollout None – mobile
On pad (horizontal and vertical) Customer cables to pad junction box (J-box) adapter cable
Flight None – separation indication only

Pad EGSE provided by the Customer will be housed in an instrument bay beneath the launch pad deck. Payload EGSE is
connected to a SpaceX-provided junction box. If utilizing hangar and pad EGSE connections, Customers must provide
6.1 m (20 ft) cables to connect the payload EGSE to the junction box.

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The junction box (“J-box”) is connected to the LV transporter-erector via a ground harness. A harness then runs along
the length of the transporter-erector and connects to the second-stage T+0 quick-disconnect. The flight side of the
second-stage quick-disconnect mates to up to four dedicated payload electrical harnesses that are provided by SpaceX
as part of the second stage. The payload harnesses are routed along the exterior of the second-stage propellant tanks,
underneath raceway covers that provide protection during ground and flight operations. At the top of the second stage,
the harnesses are routed through the Rideshare hardware stack region and to the spacecraft separation plane.

If the Payload is charging in the Launch Vehicle hangar, Customer is expected to provide a 6.1 m (20 ft) harness to
connect the Payload EGSE to SpaceX ground systems. SpaceX will supply the Payload EGSE-side electrical connector(s)
and any required accessories.

The total cable lengths between the Payload EGSE and the spacecraft separation plane are listed in Table 7-5 and shown
in Figure 7-2.

Table 7-5: Maximum Expected Cable Lengths between Payload Racks/EGSE and the Separation Plane
Launch Site PPF Hangar Launch Pad
VSFB (SLC-4) 37 m (120 ft) 208.5 m (684 ft) 171.9 m (564 ft)
CCSFS (SLC-40) 24.5 m (80 ft) 197.8 m (649 ft) 171.9 m (564 ft)
KSC (LC-39A) 24.5 m (80 ft) 181.1 m (594 ft) 196.3 m (644 ft)

The minimum one-way resistance from EGSE to separation plane is 5 ohms. SpaceX ground systems maintain a
minimum of 1MΩ of isolation resistance.

Figure 7-2: On-Pad Electrical Interfaces

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Separation device commands are used to initiate spacecraft separation from the second stage. Falcon LVs can provide
up to four redundant separation device commands. Additional separation device command requests can be
accommodated as a nonstandard service; please contact SpaceX for details.

Separation devices are typically procured by SpaceX for the Cake-Topper interface. For Customer-supplied separation
devices, reference the Rideshare Payload User’s Guide Section 7.2: Deployment Channel Properties.

SpaceX can supply inter-range instrumentation group IRIG-B000 or IRIG-B120 time from its GPS clocks to Customer
EGSE at the PPF and/or the launch pad. A launch countdown clock can also be supplied in the IRIG CS-5246 format.
These timing services are provided as a standard service; other options are available as nonstandard services.

SpaceX requires that Customers verify the compatibility of their systems with the Falcon mechanical and electrical
interfaces before shipment to the launch site. As a standard service, SpaceX will support a payload adapter mechanical
fit check, including electrical connector location compatibility, at a facility of the Customer’s choosing. Second-unit and
later flights of similar systems may be subject to reduced pre-ship verification requirements. Nonstandard verification
approaches can be developed on a mission-unique basis.

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SpaceX operates Launch Sites at:

• Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS), Florida
• Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida
• Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), California

Details about these Launch Sites can be found in the SpaceX Falcon User’s Guide, latest revision, available at
www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/.

SpaceX will provide the Launch Site facilities, equipment, documentation, and procedures to receive Customer hardware,
validate interfaces to Customer hardware, integrate the Payload with the LV, and perform a Launch of the Payload.

Customers should prepare to launch from both the Florida and California locations, as a Launch Site is not typically
confirmed until approximately L-5 months and may be subject to change.

SpaceX supports Customer personnel access to Launch Site facilities for two 8-hour working shifts per day, during those
portions of the Launch Campaign when Customer’s activities require use of a given facility.

SpaceX additionally supports 24 hours per day, 7 days per week (24/7) access to Launch Site facilities on an as-needed
basis for Customer’s scheduled activities throughout the campaign, provided such access is coordinated in advance
and mutually agreed with SpaceX. SpaceX supports 24/7 access to Launch Site facilities for responding to emergency
or off-nominal situations related to flight hardware.

During the Launch Campaign, SpaceX may provide short-term, controlled facility access to SpaceX personnel, SpaceX’s
contractors, or other third parties (e.g., other Customers, potential Customers, VIPs, SpaceX-hosted tours). SpaceX is
not required to provide Customer advance notice for short-term, controlled access to areas free of Payload or Customer
hardware. SpaceX will provide prior notice and request approval for physical or visual access to areas with Payload or
Customer hardware. At all times, SpaceX will follow Customer proprietary information and security requirements;
however, visual access to Co-Payloads is expected after mating to LV hardware.

SpaceX provides an office area at the Launch Site during Payload processing. The office area could be shared with Co-
Payload Customer(s) and could be located at the PPF or a nearby SpaceX facility. Office accommodations include 100-
Mbps-class Internet connection, which may be common with other Customer Internet connections; air conditioning; and
standard office equipment such as desks, chairs, and phones.

SpaceX provides a PPF at the Launch Site for the Customer to perform Payload Pre-Launch processing activities.
Payload and Co-Payload(s) may be co-located in the processing area. The processing area will be defined in a mission-
specific Launch Campaign Plan based on Payload and Co-Payload(s) space requirements. The Payload processing area
will:

• Operate at ISO 14644-1 Class 8 (Class 100,000) cleanliness

• Operate at 70 °F ± 5 °F air temperature (21 °C ± 3 °C)
• Operate at 45% ± 15% relative humidity
• Include 30-ton capacity crane with 59 ft (18 m) hook height
• Provide minimum floor dimensions of 30 ft x 20 ft (9 m x 6 m) for Payload processing activities

The PPF includes an area for Payload EGSE adjacent to the Payload processing area. A 100-Mbps-class Internet
connection is provided, which may be common with other Customer internet connections.

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PPF Office spaces and EGSE rooms, and garment changing rooms are shared with Co-Payload Customers. Specific
network/ethernet, power, and space requirements are detailed in the ICD. SpaceX provides a spacecraft processing area
inside of the cleanroom of 9 m x 6 m. This area is sectioned off with standard-height welding screens in the PPF. Note
that larger spacecraft may be visible above the screen height.

Customers are required to stay within their zones or the shared spaces of the PPF; however, physical locks in these
areas are not standard. Customers may provide security teams but must coordinate and obtain approval by SpaceX and
cannot interfere with other Customer or SpaceX operations.

An Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) is available as an electrical power backup in all cleanrooms, as a standard facility
service.

Hazardous operations must declare a clear-zone in the Range Safety documentation, and Customers must coordinate
these operations with SpaceX mission management.

Unconditioned (outdoor) equipment storage is available outside the PPF.

Conditioned storage within the PPF is limited and must be coordinated by the Launch Campaign Readiness Review at
L-2 months.

Propellant conditioned storage inside of the PPF or PPF airlock is available starting up to 5 days before fueling activities,
through completion of fueling activities. Hazardous fueling zones are defined in the facility user guides.

Equipment must be picked up within the time frame described in the Statement of Work. Equipment left behind after
this time without coordinated plans for pickup may be placed outside in uncovered/unconditioned storage and may be
subject to removal at the sole discretion of SpaceX.

PPF facility cranes, forklifts, and boom lifts are shared with Co-Payload Customers. Cake Topper Customers will get
initial schedule priority, as declared in the hourly processing schedule; however, if delays occur, Co-Payload Customers
on schedule will receive subsequent priority, and mission management will deconflict any further scheduling overlaps.

The Customer is responsible for providing all personal protective equipment, such as hard hats, goggles, gloves, fall
protection harnesses, and grounding straps, for Customer personnel and Customer’s Related Third Parties at the Launch
Site, with the exception of the SCAPE materials identified in Section 8.4.1.

SpaceX provides unconditioned storage of Payload propellants at the Launch Site from arrival of Payload propellant (up
to 30 days ahead of the start of Launch Campaign) through the start of Payload fueling, which may be at a non-SpaceX
location. The unconditioned storage temperature is not regulated, and propellants may be stored outside with partial
sun exposure. Customers must arrange for pickup of unused propellants no later than 90 days after the Launch.

SpaceX provides for temporary conditioned storage of Payload propellants beginning several days prior to the start of
Payload fueling through completion of fueling activities, as allowable by Range Safety and SpaceX safety regulations.
When in use, the conditioned storage temperature is maintained within ± 5°F (± 3°C) of the average Payload fueling area
temperature.

SpaceX transports the Payload propellants from unconditioned storage to a conditioned storage area prior to Payload
fueling operations.

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SpaceX provides access to a hazardous processing facility (HPF) for Payload fueling operations. The HPF is a sub-
section of the PPF:

• Provides minimum floor dimensions of 30 ft x 20 ft

• Operates at ISO 14644-1 Class 8 (Class 100,000) cleanliness
• Operates at 70°F ± 5°F air temperature (21°C ± 3°C)
• Operates at 45% ± 15% relative humidity
• Includes an exterior vent to accommodate propellant vapor in accordance with safety and environmental
regulations
• Includes a drain system to accommodate waste propellant and water in accordance with safety and
environmental regulations

Standard facility consumables are noted in the facility user guides. For hazardous fueling operations, SpaceX provides
up to 600 gallons (2273 liters) of decontamination water, and up to 3 days (with two 4-hour shifts per day) of radio-
equipped SCAPE suits and breathing air upon request. Customers must comply with NASA requirements for SCAPE
training, and this training for personnel is coordinated by SpaceX.

Customer must arrange for and implement the disposal of hazardous waste generated during Payload processing
activities, including during propellant loading and related activities, in accordance with Range Safety and facility
regulations, with the exception of the decontamination water mentioned above.

SpaceX provides a Launch Complex, including the Launch pad and related Launch Vehicle GSE. SpaceX provides
conditioned air into the fairing, including environmental monitoring of the encapsulated Payload when at the Launch
pad. In the event of a Launch Site power outage, conditioned air will be resumed on backup power systems within 10
minutes.

SpaceX may provide Customer personnel (determined on an as-needed basis) a space at the Launch Site for Launch
countdown monitoring. Space will be shared between Payload and Co-Payload Customer(s), as documented in the
mission-specific Launch Campaign Plan.

SpaceX provides a control room at the Launch Site for use by Customer and Customer’s Related Third-Party personnel,
determined on an as-needed basis. The control room may be shared between Payload Customer and other Co-Payload
Customers. The control room includes the mission-specific electrical interfaces as defined in the ICD, for Customer-
provided EGSE for Payload monitoring and control activities on the day of Launch. Customer EGSE is limited in size to 1 m
x 0.5 m x 1.5 m, unless otherwise mutually agreed and documented in the ICD. SpaceX provides 2 Payload-specific voice
nets and 1 console for the Customer to view a limited subset of Launch Vehicle parameters during rehearsal and launch
operations, consistent with US export control laws.

SpaceX provides security via a combination of locked facilities (security card access or cipher locks), closed-circuit video
monitoring, and/or personnel presence 24 hours/day at the relevant Launch Site facilities when Customer flight
hardware is present. During any hazardous operations for which the Range Safety authority requires non-essential
personnel to evacuate, video monitoring will be the sole method of surveillance available. Customers will not be granted
access to SpaceX’s video footage due to proprietary and restrictions under US export control laws.

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Rideshare Launch Services are available via direct contract with SpaceX and through certain managed procurement
services. To begin your direct contract relationship with SpaceX, please visit www.spacex.com/rideshare.

Provision of all items, information, and services identified in the Agreement by SpaceX to any foreign person (including
Customer and/or Customer’s Related Third Parties, if applicable) is subject to US export control laws, including the ITAR,
administered by the US Department of State, and EAR, administered by the US Department of Commerce. Customer
must comply with US export and import control laws, including clearance from US Customs and Border Protection, with
respect to the Payload and any Customer provided hardware, including GSE and propellant (if any).

If SpaceX reasonably determines that obtaining a License by either Party is not possible or highly unlikely within a
reasonable amount of time, despite commercially reasonable efforts by both parties to do so, SpaceX reserves the right
to re-book Customer, with applicable rebooking fees, or terminate the Agreement and return all amounts paid to
Customer, without interest, with no further liability.

To streamline communication and ensure customer satisfaction, SpaceX provides each Launch Services Customer with
a single technical point of contact from contract award through Launch (Figure 9-1). Your mission manager will be
responsible for coordinating Mission integration analysis and documentation deliverables, planning integration meetings
and reports, conducting mission-unique analyses and coordinating all integration and test activities associated with the
Mission. The mission manager also coordinates all aspects of Launch Vehicle production, range and range safety
integration, and all Mission-required licensing leading up to the Launch Campaign. The mission manager works closely
with the Customer, SpaceX technical execution staff and all associated licensing agencies in order to achieve a
successful Mission.

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Customer Organization External Organizations

Customer Program
Mission Manager SpaceX Leadership
Manager

Range Safety

Customer Ops &

Customer/Satellite Teams Integration

FAA
Production &
Launch

Vehicle
Engineering

Propulsion
Engineering

Build & Flight

Reliability

Avionics

Figure 9-1: Mission Management Organization

SpaceX creates and maintains the Payload ICD in conjunction with Customer inputs. The Payload ICD will be negotiated
in good faith between the Parties and at a minimum define physical interfaces (mechanical and electrical), functional
requirements (orbit, attitude, etc.), Payload MPEs, and Launch operations requirements. Following signature by SpaceX
and Customer, the Payload ICD will take precedence (in the event of a conflict) over the Statement of Work. Prior to
signature, the Payload ICD is maintained in draft. SpaceX will deliver the Payload ICD for signature following the
completion of Mission integration analyses. Once delivered for signature, the Parties will work in good faith to promptly
sign the Payload ICD.

SpaceX provides a Launch Campaign Plan and schedule of Launch Site operations, including required delivery dates for
Launch Range-related documentation. SpaceX will coordinate with the Customer to integrate Launch Vehicle and
Payload timelines into this plan.

SpaceX will provide program status and conduct meetings, working groups, and reviews as described in the following
subsections. SpaceX will provide advance copies of deliverables, as noted; otherwise, deliverables will be provided at the
time of the corresponding event.

SpaceX will organize integration working group meetings on an as-needed basis to address specific issues or operations
related to integration of the Payload with the Launch Vehicle. The meeting schedules and locations will be mutually
agreed between the Parties.

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SpaceX will hold a program review to discuss Launch Campaign readiness at the completion of the Mission integration
analysis cycle. Program milestones and timeline are defined in the Payload contract’s Statement of Work.

Customer responsibilities include the following items. Timely completion is necessary to ensure that SpaceX can fulfill
its responsibilities and obligations described in Section 9.6. The Parties understand that any material failure by Customer
to meet its responsibilities, including any non-compliance with the Payload ICD, may result in a Customer delay requiring
rebooking with applicable fees.

• If Customer ships by aircraft, SpaceX shall provide physical transportation of the SC (in its shipping container)
and associated GSE from the launch site airport to the PPF and shall return the empty SC container and
associated GSE to the airport after offloading the SC at the PPF.
• If Customer ships by ground, Customer is responsible for delivering the Payload and associated GSE to the
PPF or other Launch Site facility designated by SpaceX. Customer remains responsible for environmental
control of the Payload during Payload delivery, until the Payload is removed from its shipping container,
including generators and fuel to maintain environmental control.
• Customer delivers the Payload and GSE to the Launch Site no more than six weeks prior to the Launch Date
unless requested by SpaceX. Timing of delivery will be coordinated by SpaceX based on Payload and Co-
Payload(s) processing schedule.
• Customer arranges and executes the shipment of the Payload shipping container and all Customer-furnished
GSE from the Launch Site no later than 3 days after Launch.
• Customers are permitted to store no more than one standard shipping container or truck trailer at the Launch
site for the duration of their integration activities.
• Customer is responsible for all shipping and logistics of hazardous items from the port of entry to the Launch
Site, including the required labeling for storage at the Launch Site.
• Customer is responsible for obtaining any required permits, Licenses, or clearances, including from US
Customs and Border Protection for Customer’s and Customer’s Related Third Parties’ hardware and
consumables.

• Customer provides the Payload and all Payload-unique GSE required for Customer’s Launch readiness activities
at the Launch Site, interfacing to SpaceX hardware at the Launch Site (as defined in the Payload-specific ICD),
and ensures that all Payload and Payload-unique GSE meet the appropriate safety requirements (reference
Section 11.1).
• Customer will coordinate activities with SpaceX to create an integrated schedule and procedures where
necessary.
• Beginning upon Payload arrival at the Launch Site and throughout the Launch Campaign, Customer provides
to SpaceX once per working day, an updated Payload processing schedule. The schedule should include a 3-
day look-ahead summarizing all items requiring SpaceX support, such as: opening processing area doors,
SpaceX GSE usage (cranes, forklifts, man lifts, etc.), and any other items requiring SpaceX support. Note also,
Payload hazardous operations require 72 hours’ advance notice, with precise activity timing, from SpaceX to
the Launch Range safety authorities.
• Upon request, Customer will provide SpaceX with access to the flight-mating interface for a mating interface
to SpaceX-provided Mechanical Interface fit check after Payload arrival at the Launch Site but before flight
mating.

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• Customer is responsible for providing all personal protective equipment, such as fall protection harnesses, for
Customer and Customer’s Related Third Parties at the Launch Site. Customer and Customer’s Related Third
Parties may not borrow personal protective equipment from SpaceX personnel.
• Customer is responsible for cleaning all Customer-provided equipment and hardware to the appropriate
SpaceX-designated contamination-control levels prior to entering SpaceX’s cleanliness-controlled facilities at
the Launch Site (e.g., the PPF). Standard cleaning products (e.g., isopropyl alcohol and cleanroom wipes) are
provided by SpaceX; however, SpaceX personnel will not clean Customer hardware.
• Open air Payload RF checkouts during integration are prohibited for safety reasons. RF transmissions are
prohibited throughout mating to Launch Vehicle hardware and are only allowed until after Payload separation
as defined Section 4.1.7.3.
• The Payload will have access to the electrical harnesses referenced in Section 7 for Payload health checks and
battery charging up until Launch Vehicle rollout from the integration hangar to the Launch pad. Additional
access to Payload telemetry and battery charging can be procured as an optional service (see Appendix I).

Fueling of Rideshare Payloads at the Launch Site is available as an optional service (see Appendix I), but not part of the
standard offering.

• Customer will provide any pressurant and other consumables required by the Payload, including transportation
of such consumables to and from the Launch Site. Delivery of all Payload consumables must be coordinated
in advance with SpaceX.
• Customer will provide advance copies of all hazardous operation procedures, in addition to a Payload Ground
Operations Plan (GOP), which references each hazardous procedure (reference Appendix G). Hazardous
procedures and the GOP are reviewed and approved by the Launch Range safety authority. Customer will also
provide copies of any non-hazardous procedures requested by the Launch Range safety authority.
• Customer will arrange for and implement the disposal of hazardous waste generated during Payload
processing activities in accordance with Launch Range and facility regulations.
• Customer will provide the necessary decontamination equipment and perform all required decontamination
activities for Payload GSE that is contaminated by hazardous substances during Payload processing activities
in accordance with Launch Range and facility regulations.
• Fueling of cryogenic propellants or other consumables post encapsulation is not allowed.

Customer is responsible for obtaining any visas required for Customer’s personnel, including Customer’s Related Third
Parties and guests. SpaceX can provide letters of invitation for Customer’s Launch Campaign personnel to support the
issuance of U.S. entry visas by the U.S. Department of State.

In the event of an anomaly, mishap, accident, or other event resulting in property damage, bodily injury, or other loss,
Customer will cooperate with SpaceX, any insurers, and federal, state, and local government agencies in their respective
investigations of the event, including the completion of witness statements, if applicable. Such cooperation will include
providing all data arising out of or related to the Payload, any ground support, and any activities relating to the
performance of the Agreement, reasonably requested by SpaceX, the insurers, or federal, state, and local agencies.
Notwithstanding Customer’s obligation to cooperate, SpaceX may use reasonable means to independently access such
information. Customer and Customer’s customers may not make any public comment, announcement, or other
disclosure regarding such event without SpaceX’s review and approval.

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Customer will flow down its responsibilities relating to Payload licensing and registration under the Agreement (including
registration pursuant to the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space) to each of its customers,
in writing. Evidence of proper flow-down will be provided to SpaceX upon request. Customer will provide a letter in the
form of Appendix F, certifying that Customer has obtained all required Licenses and that all Payload information provided
to SpaceX and/or any licensing agencies is complete and accurate.

Pre-Launch Payload Registration

Customer is responsible for registering all deployed objects with the 18th SPCS to assist with tracking and identification.
Information can be found at https://www.space-track.org on how to register a Payload and the process for
communicating and coordinating with the 18th SPCS (18SPCS.doo.customerservice@us.af.mil).

Additionally, if any of the payload's operational, transfer, or disposal orbits cross the ISS altitude, NASA requests direct
coordination at jsc-dl-topo-iwg@mail.nasa.gov for ISS conjunction deconfliction.

SpaceX also recommends Customers consider adopting and following the best practices outlined in the NASA
Spacecraft Conjunction Assessment and Collision Avoidance Best Practices Handbook, which can be found at
https://nodis3.gsfc.nasa.gov/OCE_docs/OCE_50.pdf.

Post-Launch Ephemeris Uploads

Customer is responsible for publishing forward predicted satellite ephemerides with covariance to:

• Space-Track: https://www.space-track.org
• SpaceX Space Traffic Coordination: Details at https://docs.space-safety.starlink.com/, contact space-safety-
onboarding@spacex.com for Pre-Launch setup and testing

An important benchmark is uploading ephemerides within Launch + 3 hours when the Launch COLA analysis expires.
SpaceX additionally submits post-launch ephemeris for each deployment event based on Stage 2's state and estimated
deployment impulse, but customer-provided orbit determination from satellite telemetry (e.g., from GPS) is more
accurate.

If Customer is unable to generate propagated ephemeris and covariance, SpaceX strongly recommends they work with
a commercial provider to contract for this work (SpaceX can provide recommendations). Publishing predictions
drastically improves and accelerates the cataloging process by USSPACECOM, as well as enhancing collision avoidance
screening.

SpaceX responsibilities include the following items. The Parties understand that any material failure by SpaceX to meet
its responsibilities may result in changes in the scheduling of the Launch Period or Launch Date; such changes are not
subject to any Customer rebooking fees.

SpaceX will advise the Customer approximately 60 days prior to the start of the Launch Period, of the Launch Date. The
above-referenced dates will be determined by SpaceX in its sole discretion.

• SpaceX will provide transportation of the Payload and associated GSE between facilities at the Launch Site.
This includes transportation of the Payload from the PPF to the Launch Complex and transportation of
hazardous fluids and gasses between facilities at the Launch Site.

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• SpaceX will provide Launch Range coordination for Payload and associated GSE transportation activities when
at the Launch Site.
• To the extent required by the Launch Range, SpaceX will arrange safety and security escorts for Payload and
GSE transportation events at the Launch Site.
• SpaceX will provide transportation for Customer’s non-US personnel between a designated off-site parking area
and SpaceX Launch Site facilities, and between SpaceX facilities, on a reasonable schedule. US government
regulations require that non-US personnel and US personnel representing non-US entities must be escorted
while on a US government Launch Site.

• SpaceX will lead the operations required to physically integrate the Payload with the Launch Vehicle, including
any operations involving integrated Payload and Launch Vehicle hardware.
• SpaceX will provide all non-Payload-unique encapsulation equipment, the GSE required to handle the
encapsulated Payload, and the GSE required to transport the encapsulated Payload to the Launch Complex.
• SpaceX will provide the equipment to integrate the encapsulated Payload with the Launch Vehicle at the Launch
Complex.

At SpaceX’s sole discretion, SpaceX may provide still photography and/or videography services during selected Payload
processing, testing, and integration operations. This service does not include delivery or broadcast of photography or
videography in real-time or near real-time.

All media intended for release is subject to Launch Range security procedures, US export control laws, and where
applicable, the prior written approval of the US Government. Media that includes images of SpaceX hardware or facilities
is also subject to SpaceX’s prior written approval for release.

SpaceX provides security via a combination of locked facilities (security card access or cipher locks), closed-circuit video
monitoring and/or personnel present 24 hours/day at the relevant Launch Site facilities when Customer flight hardware
is present. During any hazardous operations for which the Launch Range safety authority requires non-essential
personnel to evacuate, video monitoring will be the sole method of surveillance available. Customer will not be granted
access to SpaceX’s video footage.

SpaceX will prepare for and perform a Launch of the Payload. Starting upon Payload arrival at the Launch Site and
throughout the Launch Campaign, the SpaceX mission manager will provide to the Customer, at least once per working
day, an updated Launch Campaign schedule (including key milestones and joint operations), relevant Launch Range
safety status and information, and Launch Vehicle integration status.

SpaceX may conduct one or more Launch Vehicle wet dress rehearsals (inclusive of loading the Launch Vehicle with
propellant) and static fire tests (inclusive of first-stage engine ignition) at the Launch pad prior to Launch. SpaceX may
perform these operations with encapsulated Rideshare Payloads mated to the Launch Vehicle.

SpaceX will integrate the scheduling of Payload processing activities with Launch Vehicle processing activities. SpaceX
will maintain and communicate the integrated schedules and procedures. In addition, SpaceX will act as the primary
point of contact between the Launch Range and the Customer and coordinate all Launch Range support, including the
following:

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1. Launch Range security and badge control

2. Launch Range scheduling
3. Launch Range system safety
4. Meteorology
5. Communications and timing
6. Fire protection
7. Non-hazardous fluids and gases:
a. Gaseous helium per MIL-PRF-27407, Grade A (5700 psi max)
b. Gaseous nitrogen per MIL-PRF-27401, Grade A (4150 psi max)
c. Compressed Air (120 psi max)
d. Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)

SpaceX will maintain PPF management and scheduling responsibilities throughout the Payload processing and
encapsulation phase. As facility manager, SpaceX will require some oversight of Payload activities.

SpaceX will provide training for Customer personnel regarding the PPF (cranes, warning lights, etc.) and applicable
Launch Range/facility safety and security procedures. Training will be provided in advance of Payload arrival and
offloading at the Launch Site.

SpaceX will provide to Customer commercially reasonable support and information to enable Customer to satisfy the
requirements of all applicable regulatory/licensing agencies and associated statutes, including Launch Range safety,
the US Departments of State and Commerce, the US FAA, the US FCC, and the CSLA.

Each Party will be responsible for obtaining all Licenses to carry out its obligations under the Agreement. For example,
SpaceX is responsible for licensing RF emissions entering free-space from SpaceX-provided hardware and the Customer
is responsible for licensing RF emissions entering free-space from Customer-provided hardware.

If Customer or any of Customer’s Related Third Parties takes any action or fails to take an action that SpaceX reasonably
determines requires delaying any application for or amending any License for which SpaceX is responsible to obtain,
SpaceX reserves the right to re-book Customer, with applicable rebooking fees.

SpaceX will conduct the following analyses in support of the Payload as required. All other environments are verified by
Customer using requirements found in Section 4 and verification found in Section 6.

SpaceX performs a trajectory and performance analysis in order to analyze the following Mission parameters:

1. The nominal flight timeline, profile (plots of altitude and acceleration. vs. time), and ground track
2. The free molecular heating environment at fairing jettison
3. The Earth-Centered-Earth-Fixed (ECEF) Payload separation state vector
4. Payload and Co-Payload(s) deploy timeline
5. Orbit injection accuracy

SpaceX analyzes and implements a single Earth-referenced Launch trajectory, a single Earth-referenced ascent attitude
profile, and a single Earth-referenced Payload separation attitude, which will be used for all dates and times throughout
the Launch Period. SpaceX does not implement multiple trajectories for various dates/times within the Launch Period
and does not provide sun-referenced or inertially referenced attitudes during ascent or for Payload separation. Results
will be provided by SpaceX.

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SpaceX performs an analysis to determine the need for a collision avoidance maneuver following separation of Payload
and Co-Payload(s). This analysis will characterize the relative separation distance between the second stage and the
Payload for one orbit after separation. This analysis will assume that no propulsive activities are executed by the Payload
during the period analyzed. SpaceX does not perform additional analyses with respect to collision avoidance of potential
debris or other space objects. These results will be provided by SpaceX as part of the trajectory and performance results
described in Section 9.6.9.1.

SpaceX coordinates with applicable US regulatory authorities, such as the FAA and the Combined Space Operations
Center (CSpOC), to select a Launch Window that results in a sufficiently low risk of collision with another space object
during the Mission. In order to facilitate this coordination with the regulatory authorities, SpaceX will utilize the separation
velocity imposed on the Payload by the separation system as documented in the Payload ICD and position predicted by
the Trajectory analysis. Any Payload propulsive maneuvers or secondary Payload deployments within 3 hours of Launch
must be coordinated with SpaceX for inclusion in CSpOC analysis and will be documented in the Payload ICD.

SpaceX performs a CLA to verify the predicted dynamic flight loads and responses of the Payload are within the MPE
described in Sections 4.1.2 and 4.1.3. If any results are found to exceed the MPE described in Sections 4.1.2 and 4.1.3,
SpaceX will provide the CLA results to the Customer for further evaluation.

SpaceX may perform a separation analysis for MicroSat-class Payload Constituents deploying from the Launch Vehicle
to verify the Customer provided analysis as described in Section 3.3. CubeSat deployments from Containerized
dispensers are not specifically analyzed; SpaceX instead relies on the separation properties provided by the Customer.
These results are used as an input for the collision avoidance analysis. Since Payload mass properties and slosh are
outside of SpaceX’s control, SpaceX will evaluate requirements compliance via the ideal analysis case. If required,
SpaceX will provide a presentation summarizing the results of the analysis and highlighting any issues or concerns for
the Payload.

SpaceX performs a clearance analysis to validate the dynamic envelope compatibility between the Launch Vehicle and
the Payload, and the Co-Payload(s) to the Payload, during all phases of the Mission. Clearance analysis results will be
provided to the Customer for any Payload in excess of the allowable Payload allowable volume defined in Appendix A.

Cake Topper Payloads may submit a logo and brief summary (typically around one-half of a page, summarized in bullet
points) of the spacecraft mission for the SpaceX Launch webcast. A short video from the Customer is also acceptable,
subject to SpaceX approval; please contact SpaceX for video requirements.

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Launch Vehicle operations are described in this section for launches from CCSFS, KSC, and VSFB. SpaceX launch
operations are designed for rapid response (targeting less than one hour from vehicle rollout from the hangar to launch).
Customers are strongly encouraged to develop launch readiness capabilities and timelines consistent with a rapid pre-
Launch concept of operations.

The Launch Vehicle system and associated operations have been designed for minimal complexity and minimal time at
the pad. Customer Payload processing is performed in the PPF. After completion of standalone Payload operations (over
a 15-day period), SpaceX performs the Payload mate to Launch Vehicle hardware followed by fairing encapsulation at
the PPF. Payload and Co-Payload arrivals will be scheduled by SpaceX and may be staggered. The encapsulated
assembly is then transported to the integration hangar. The Launch Vehicle is processed in the integration hangar at the
Launch Complex and then loaded on the TE. The encapsulated assembly is mated to the Launch Vehicle at
approximately L-5 days, followed by end-to-end system checkouts. Launch Vehicle systems are designed for rollout and
Launch on the same day.

If the Customer ships via aircraft transport, the Customer delivers the Payload and GSE to the Launch Site airport
designated by SpaceX, and SpaceX will transport the container from the launch site airport to the PPF. If Customer ships
via road or sea transport, the Customer delivers the Payload and associated GSE to the PPF or other Launch Site facility
designated by SpaceX. The Customer is responsible for environmental control of the Payload during Payload delivery,
until the Payload is removed from its shipping container, including generators and fuel to maintain environmental control.

The Customer may also choose to ship the payload and GSE by ground directly to the PPF, or to the Launch Site airport
designated by SpaceX, where SpaceX will then transport the Payload and GSE to the PPF. The Customer is responsible
for all transportation to/from the Launch Site when shipping by sea or arriving at an airport not located at the Launch
Site. Transport within SpaceX facilities, including safety and security coordination with the Launch Range, is arranged
by SpaceX. The Customer must arrange and execute the shipment of the Payload shipping container and all Customer-
furnished GSE from the Launch Site no later than 3 days after Launch.

The Customer can deliver propellants to the Launch Site no more than 30 days before Launch and must remove any
unused propellant from the Launch Site no more than 90 days after Launch.

The Customer is responsible for obtaining any required permits, Licenses, or clearances for hardware import or export,
as well as visas for non-US personnel, including Customer’s Related Third Parties and guests. SpaceX can provide letters
of invitation for Customer Launch Campaign personnel to support the issuance of US entry visas by the US Department
of State.

The Customer is responsible for obtaining customs clearance of Customer’s hardware and consumables, including the
Payload.

SpaceX provides an ISO Class 8 (Class 100,000) PPF for processing Customer Payload, including equipment unloading,
unpacking/packing, final assembly, nonhazardous flight preparations, and checkouts. The PPF is available to Customer
for two 8-hour working shifts per day. Layouts as well as standard services and equipment available in the PPF for VSFB
and CCSFS can be found in the SpaceX Falcon User’s Guide, latest revision, available on
www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/.

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The PPF is also designed to accommodate hazardous operations such as hypergolic propellant loading and ordnance
installation. Fueling operations are allowed as an optional service (see Appendix I).

IMPORTANT NOTE: All Cake Topper remove before flight (RBF) items must be removed before the final stacking
operation to the top of the rideshare stack.

Upon Customer request, SpaceX can provide still photography services during selected Payload processing, testing, and
integration operations. This service does not include delivery or broadcast of photography in real-time or near-real-time.
The Customer may use still photography that does not include video or sound. No phones or tablets are permitted in the
cleanroom, and laptop cameras and microphones must be covered/off. Live meetings, including audio streaming, are
not permitted in the cleanroom. All photos are subject to SpaceX review prior to leaving the facility and may not include
other Customer or SpaceX hardware or personnel.

All media intended for release is subject to Range Safety security procedures, US export control laws, and where
applicable, the prior written approval of the US Government. Media that includes images of SpaceX hardware or facilities
is also subject to SpaceX’s prior written approval for release.

Joint operations begin once Customer has completed the Payload mate to the SpaceX-provided Mechanical Interface,
if applicable. Payload to Launch Vehicle hardware mate and fairing encapsulation are performed by SpaceX within the
PPF. Fairing encapsulation is performed in the vertical orientation. Transportation is performed in the vertical orientation,
and environmental control is provided throughout the transportation activity. Once at the Launch Vehicle integration
hangar, the encapsulated assembly is rotated to horizontal and mated with the Launch Vehicle already positioned on
the TE.

Once the encapsulated assembly is mated to the Launch Vehicle, the hangar facility HVAC system is connected via a
fairing air conditioning duct to maintain environmental control inside the fairing. The Payload and Co-Payload(s) are then
reconnected to EGSE (if required), and Customer has a final chance to perform electrical checkouts prior to Launch
Vehicle rollout and launch.

A breakdown of decision-making roles between SpaceX and the Launch range can be found in SpaceX Falcon User’s
Guide, latest revision, available on www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/.

Launch countdown monitoring and access to Payload telemetry throughout the Launch countdown is available as an
optional service (see Appendix I). Space within the Launch Control Center would be shared between Payload and Co-
Payload Customer(s), as documented in a Launch Campaign Plan.

After all Payload and Co-Payload(s) EGSE is disconnected and readiness is verified the integrated Launch Vehicle may
be rolled out from the hangar to the pad on the TE. Once the Launch Vehicle is at the pad, the fairing air conditioning
system is reconnected, which helps maintain environmental control through liftoff. Electrical connectivity is provided via
ground cables (reference Section 7.6). The Launch Vehicle will typically be erected only once, although the capability
exists to easily return it to a horizontal orientation if necessary.

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The Launch Vehicle is designed to support a countdown duration as short as 1 hour. Early in the countdown, the vehicle
performs LOX, RP-1 and pressurant loading, and it executes a series of vehicle and range checkouts. The TE strongback
is retracted just prior to launch. Automated software sequencers control all critical Launch Vehicle functions during
terminal countdown. Final Launch activities include verifying flight termination system status, transferring to internal
power, and activating the transmitters. Engine ignition occurs shortly before liftoff, while the Launch Vehicle is held down
at the base via hydraulic clamps. The flight computer evaluates engine ignition and full -power performance during the
pre-Launch hold-down, and if nominal criteria are satisfied, the hydraulic release system is activated at T-0. A safe
shutdown is executed should any off-nominal condition be detected.

Launch Vehicle systems and operations have been designed to enable recycle operations when appropriate. Although
every recycle event and launch window requirement is unique, the Launch Vehicle offers the general capability to perform
multiple recycles within a given launch window, eliminating unnecessary launch delays.

In the event of a launch scrub, the TE and Launch Vehicle will stay vertical. However, for any long-duration Launch
postponements, SpaceX will return the Launch Vehicle on the TE to the hangar.

A summary of Launch Vehicle flight operations including Liftoff, Ascent, and Payload Separation can be found in SpaceX
Falcon User’s Guide, latest revision, available on www.spacex.com/vehicles/falcon-9/. SpaceX will provide a quick-look
orbit injection report to the Customer shortly after Payload separation, including a best-estimate Payload separation
state vector as described in Appendix E. Customer is responsible for tracking and contacting the Payload after
separation from the Launch Vehicle.

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

Customers are required to meet AFSPCMAN 91-710 Range User's Manual in the design and operation of their flight and
ground systems. These requirements encompass mechanical design, electrical design, fluid and pressurant systems,
lifting and handling systems, ordnance and RF systems, GSE, and other design and operational features. SpaceX will
serve as the safety liaison between the Customer and the range and will provide templates for document compliance.

Most ranges consider hazardous systems and operations to include ordnance operations, pressurized systems that
operate below a 4-to-1 safety factor, lifting operations, operations or systems that include toxic or hazardous materials,
high-power RF systems and laser systems, batteries, and a variety of other systems and operations. The details of the
system design and its operation will determine whether the system or related operations are considered hazardous.
Typically, additional precautions are required for operating systems that are considered hazardous, such as redundant
valving between pressurant and propellant. Additional precautions will be determined during the safety approval process
with SpaceX and the Launch Range. All hazardous operations require procedures that are approved by both SpaceX and
the Launch Range prior to execution. Ordnance operations, in particular, require coordination to provide reduced RF
environments, cleared areas, safety support, and other requirements.

For systems or operations that do not meet safety requirements but are believed to be acceptable for ground operations
and launch, a waiver is typically produced for approval by the Launch Range safety authority. Waivers require
considerable coordination and are considered a last resort; they should not be considered a standard practice.

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Figure A-1: 15” Diameter Mechanical Interface

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Figure A-2: 24” Diameter Mechanical Interface

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Figure A-3: 937 mm Clampband Interface

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Figure A-4: 937 mm Clampband Configuration

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Figure A-5: 1194 mm Clampband Interface

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Figure A-6: 1194 mm Clampband Configuration

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Figure A-7: 1666 mm Clampband Interface

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Figure A-8: 1666 mm Clampband Configuration

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Figure A-9: 4-point Cake Topper Interface

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Figure A-10: Cake Topper Keep-in Volume (Clampband Configuration)

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Figure A-11: Cake Topper Keep-in Volume (Topper Plate Configuration)

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The Payload dynamic model shall be provided to SpaceX as a Craig-Bampton reduced model. SpaceX provides a
dynamic model summary template for Customer to ensure the following requirements are met.

Payload Craig-Bampton Model Definition

Model Requirements:

• The model file should be no larger than 500 MB

• The units of the model shall be clearly defined (English or SI)
• The model will be delivered as a multipoint interface model (see Interface Requirements section)
• The model shall be Craig-Bampton formatted
• Modal damping shall be specified (see Damping Definition section)
• Any uncertainty factor applied to the modal responses shall be defined (see Uncertainty Factor section)
• The model shall have frequency content up to 150 Hz
• All output requests shall be clearly defined (see Analysis Outputs section)
• The model shall be an accurate, in good faith, representation of the Payload including primary and secondary
structures
• Slosh effects shall be included, slosh modes identified, and method of scaling for acceleration shall be clearly
defined

Interface Requirements:

• The interface to the Launch Vehicle shall remain physical with six degrees of freedom at each interface node
• The location of the interface shall match the Payload to Launch Vehicle mechanical interface definition (e.g., if
Customer is providing the separation system, it must be included in the model)
• Boundary node locations shall be clearly defined in accordance with the following table for all Payload
interfaces matching the provided diameters. This ensures correspondence with Payload Adapter models

Boundary Grid Numbering

Interface Diameter (mm) Number of Boundary Grids

937 120
1194 240
1575 120
1666 360
2624 244
2795 180
3117 180

• Interface points not defined at the Payload to Launch Vehicle interface plane will not be allowed
o Exception: the Customer can prove their necessity, and the interface point is sufficiently stiff; e.g., no
electrical connections or ducting
• The coordinate system used for the boundary degrees of freedom relative to the Launch Vehicle (Payload
clocking) shall be a cylindrical output coordinate system with the origin at the center of the interface. This
coordinate system will be defined only once and in a clear manner. Boundary nodes will be numbered
sequentially and ordered counterclockwise (i.e., about LV +X in a right-hand coordinate system). Example is
shown in the figure below

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• All grid points (in the DTM) for which fairing relative deflections are desired shall include all three translations
sequentially. If an acceleration-based DTM is provided for Launch Vehicle to Payload relative deflection
calculations, then the displacement-based portion shall also be provided

Boundary coordinate system definition example

Matrix Requirements:

• The model shall Include mass, stiffness and Output Transformation Matrices
• The mass and stiffness matrices (M and K, respectively) shall be provided as complete matrices
• The M and K matrices shall be defined as shown below.
o 𝑖 are the modal degrees of freedom
o 𝑏 are the boundary degrees of freedom
o 𝜔𝑖2 is a diagonal matrix of the eigenvalues
o 𝐾𝑏𝑏 is the stiffness from the boundary degrees of freedom

𝑀 𝑀𝑏𝑖 0 𝐾𝑏𝑏
𝑀 = [ 𝑏𝑏 ],𝐾 = [
]
𝑀𝑖𝑏 𝐼 𝜔𝑖2 0
• Output Transformation Matrices (OTM) a.k.a. Data recovery matrices (𝐷𝑅𝑀) used to recover Payload
responses (𝑅) shall be in one of the three forms shown below, where 𝑥̈ are accelerations and 𝑥 are
displacements.
𝑥𝑏̈
{𝑅} = [𝐷𝑅𝑀1] { }
𝑥𝑖̈
𝑥
{𝑅} = [𝐷𝑅𝑀2] { 𝑥𝑏 }
𝑖

𝑥̈ 𝑥
{𝑅} = [𝐷𝑅𝑀1] { 𝑏 } + [𝐷𝑅𝑀2] { 𝑥𝑏 }
𝑥𝑖̈ 𝑖

o Responses may be recovered using a 𝐷𝑅𝑀1 (acceleration transformation matrix), a 𝐷𝑅𝑀2

(displacement transformation matrix), or using both a 𝐷𝑅𝑀1 and a 𝐷𝑅𝑀2
o DRM1 and DRM2 shall each be provided as separate matrices
o Load transformation matrices for element forces, pressures, stresses, etc. shall be recovered with
either a 𝐷𝑅𝑀1, or using both a 𝐷𝑅𝑀1 and a 𝐷𝑅𝑀2
• Total number of recoveries shall be limited to 5,000 rows

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• Time histories are not a standard output and will not be provided unless determined necessary by SpaceX
• Definition of the Craig-Bampton model rows and columns shall be provided to facilitate coupling of the Payload
to Launch Vehicle model
• Labels for the rows of the (𝐷𝑅𝑀) shall be provided for inclusion in results tables
• All LTM matrices shall be defined such that they produce loads when multiplied by accelerations (not in g’s)
and displacements: e.g., inch/sec2 and rad/sec2 and inch and radian or other consistent units.

Analysis Outputs

The following standard CLA outputs are delivered in Microsoft Excel and are reported by load case unless otherwise
specified:

• Payload Net-CG response max/min table

• OTM response max/min tables*
• Interface force max/min tables
• Interface sine vibe curves with Q specified by Customer
• Relative displacements (between Payload and fairing)

* OTM = Output Transformation Matrix. May also be referred to as a DRM (Data Recovery Matrix). OTMs can include
DTM (Displacement Transformation Matrix), ATM (Acceleration Transformation Matrix), LTM (Load Transformation
Matrix) and others.

The output coordinate system of the interface force max/min tables and the interface sine vibe curves is dependent on
the coordinate system in which the grid points are defined. The available coordinate systems are:

For a multi-point interface with a single coordinate system

• LV coordinate system
• SC coordinate system (as defined by the coordinate system of the spacecraft interface DOF in the
stiffness/mass matrices)

For a multi-point interface with multiple coordinate systems

• LV coordinate system
• SV coordinate system (as defined by the coordinate system of the first boundary point in the stiffness/mass
matrices)

If outputs in any other coordinate system are desired, then the Customer shall generate and provide such outputs in the
ATM and/or LTM response recovery matrices.

Damping Definition

Diagonal modal damping shall be defined as a percent of critical (and may vary from mode to mode) unless there is firm
rationale why full matrix damping should be exercised, such as the existence of an internal highly damped isolation
system with known physical characteristics.

Expected slosh mode damping shall be included in the damping definition.

Uncertainty Factor

SpaceX, as a standard practice, will apply a model uncertainty factor to all responses that reflects Launch Vehicle
maturity. However, if Customer desires the application of a larger model uncertainty factor, this shall be specifically
requested. Under no circumstance will the model uncertainty factor be less than that used in SpaceX standard practice.

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Documentation

SpaceX requests that the Customer fill out the “spacecraft_customer_template” excel file when providing their dynamic
model. This standardized template eases coupling of the spacecraft to the LV and ensures that required information is
provided in a clear format.

SpaceX also requests that the Payload dynamic model and populated customer template be accompanied by any
Customer generated supporting documentation (in the Customer desired format) as needed. Provided documentation
should include:

1. Definition of units used (SI or English)

2. Definition of the Payload coordinate system relative to the Launch Vehicle
3. Location of all interface grids in Payload coordinate system
4. Comparison of unreduced (FEM) and condensed (Craig-Bampton) models
a. Mass
b. Center of gravity relative to interface
c. Strain energy
d. First seven modes of free-free analysis
e. Modal analysis, including modal effective mass
5. A list of all frequencies
6. Pictures and/or descriptions and frequencies of the first few mode shapes (including the three fundamental
modes in X, Y, and Z)
7. Definition of damping
8. Definition of the model response (dynamic) uncertainty factor
9. Definition of output format and requests, e.g., interface loads, interface accelerations, net CG loads, internal
Payload loads, shock response spectra (SRSs), etc. If SRSs are requested, the number of rows shall be limited
to 500.
10. If internal Payload responses are requested, provide appropriate DRMs (ATMs, DTMs, and LTMs) as well as
tables defining the rows of these matrices
11. Definition of any Payload limit loads, including primary structure and component level, in order for SpaceX to
evaluate the CLA results (net CG, interface loads, and ATM/DTM/LTM) and determine if the CLA indicates an
exceedance of Payload structural capability
12. Definition of slosh mode frequencies and mode numbers, along with expected damping and method for scaling
relative to acceleration

The above list is not all-inclusive, and Customer is encouraged to provide additional information that will assist SpaceX
in processing the Payload dynamic model for the coupled loads analysis.

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The Customer must provide SpaceX a CAD model of the Payload in NX Parasolid (preferred), or STEP 214 or lower file
format. SpaceX will integrate the Payload CAD model with the models of the Launch Vehicle second stage, SpaceX-
provided Mechanical Interface, and fairing for visualization, integration, clearance check, and operations development
purposes.

SpaceX uses Siemens NX for CAD processing and, upon mutual agreement of the Parties, can accept Customer CAD
models in a Parasolid file, the native format of NX.

The Payload CAD model must be simplified by the Customer and focus primarily on outer mold line and interface fidelity
(to facilitate efficient model manipulation and processing). The Customer must limit their CAD model complexity, as
requested by SpaceX, to only the details and interfaces necessary for integration with the Launch Vehicle, while retaining
the basic structure of the Payload. Spurious information must be removed from the model by the Customer before
transmission to SpaceX (an example of unnecessary detail is thousands of bodies within a CAD model representing
individual cells on a solar array).

Mass properties are provided in concert with CAD. This mass data must match exactly with the delivered CAD coordinate
system configuration and units.

The Payload CAD model must include the following information in order for SpaceX to analyze clearances, prepare
compatibility drawings, and produce Payload ICD images:

• Payload interface to Launch Vehicle:

o Payload mechanical interface to Launch Vehicle
o Separation connectors and associated brackets
o Pusher pads
• Components subject to review for clearance analysis:
o External components to review for clearance to fairing volume (e.g. solar array panels, aft and forward
antenna components, reflectors)
o Any components in the immediate vicinity (<20 cm) of the interface components above
o Any components which protrude below the separation plane
• Any points which may require access after encapsulation
• Simple Payload bus structure.

The Payload CAD model must not include:

• Internal Payload or bus components

• Spurious details, including individual solar array cells, fasteners, antenna, reflectors, etc., that do not add to the
understanding of external volumes

Prior to delivering CAD to SpaceX, please verify:

 All SpaceX hardware has been removed

 Entire payload is fully contained within the desired flight configuration keep-in volume
 Unnecessary detail that does not add to the understanding of external volumes has been removed
 Simplified bodies fully envelope OML of actual payload
 All direct LV interface bodies are included
 Payload is properly configured: origin is at SpaceX standard interface, clocked correctly, and agrees with
corresponding mass properties
 File size is 50Mb or less
The file type is Parasolid (.x_t), preferred by SpaceX. Alternatively, the file format is STEP 214 or lower file format

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The Payload Customer must provide Payload readiness certification letters prior to Payload encapsulation and prior to
Launch Vehicle roll out to the Launch Pad. The letter templates below are broken out into three possible scenarios:

• Scenario A: No battery charging after stand-alone operations

• Scenario B: Battery charging prior to Launch Vehicle rollout to Launch Pad (Optional Service)
• Scenario C: Battery charging at Launch Pad (Optional Service)

Encapsulation Readiness Letter Template

[Insert Company Logo] [Insert Company Name]

[Insert Company Address]

To: Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX)

From: [Insert Company Name]
Date: [Insert Date]
Subject: Encapsulation Readiness Certification Letter

[Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload is ready for fairing encapsulation. [Insert Company]
confirms the following:

1. All Remove Before Flight (RBF) items have been removed from the Rideshare Payload
2. All Add Before Flight (ABF) items have been installed on the Rideshare Payload
3. All closeout pictures have been taken and reviewed
4. All mechanical and electrical connections between the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload and the SpaceX Rideshare
dispenser hardware is complete
5. No entry into the fairing is required once the Rideshare Payload is encapsulated

[CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING]

A. [Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload batteries were last charged to full capacity
on [Insert Date] at [Insert Time] [Insert Local Time Zone] and will remain flight ready for up to 45 days after
Payload encapsulation [Insert encapsulation + 45 days Date].
B. [Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload batteries will be fully charged prior to
Launch Vehicle roll out to the Launch Pad and remain flight ready for up to 5 days since last charge.
C. [Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload batteries will be fully charged while
connected to the Launch Pad and that charging will be terminated prior to T-1 hour.

Sincerely,

[Insert Signature]

[Insert Company]

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Launch Readiness Letter Template

[Insert Company Logo] [Insert Company Name]

[Insert Company Address]

To: Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX)

From: [Insert Company Name]
Date: [Insert Date]
Subject: Launch Readiness Certification Letter

[Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload is GO for launch on the Falcon 9 rocket, including
conforming to all applicable Payload safety requirements of the Air Force Space Command Range Safety User
Requirement Manual (AFSPCMAN 91-710), as tailored for the Mission.

[Insert Company] has reviewed all open issues and risks and certifies that there are no current constraints to Launch. If
there are any new issues that arise prior to Launch, [Insert Company] will inform SpaceX.

[CHOOSE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING]

A. As certified in the Encapsulation Readiness Certification Letter dated [Insert Date], the [Insert Name] Rideshare
Payload batteries were last charged to full capacity on [Insert Date] at [Insert Time] [Insert Local Time Zone]
and will remain flight ready for up to 45 days after Payload encapsulation [Insert encapsulation + 45 days Date].
B. [Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload batteries were last charged on [Insert Date]
at [Insert Time] [Insert Local Time Zone] to full capacity and will remain flight ready for up to 5 days since last
charge, [Insert last charge + 5 days Date].
C. [Insert Company] certifies that the [Insert Name] Rideshare Payload batteries will be fully charged while
connected to the Pad and that charging will be terminated prior to T-1 hour.

Sincerely,

[Insert Signature]

[Insert Company]

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Pre-Launch Example
SpaceX OPM output (generated YYYY-MM-DD-Day-HH-MM-SS):

All orbital elements are defined as osculating at the instant of the printed state.
Orbital elements are computed in an inertial frame realized by inertially freezing the WGS84 ECEF frame at time
of current state. This OPM is provided based on flight telemetry from the second-stage, and therefore
represents the state of the second-stage and not the state of any other body. Any position, velocity, attitude,
or attitude-rate differences between the second-stage and any other body need to be accounted for by the
recipient of this OPM.

UTC time at liftoff: DOY:HH:MM:SS.SS

UTC time of current state: DOY:HH:MM:SS.SS
Mission elapsed time (s): +XX.XX
ECEF (X,Y,Z) Position (m): +XXXXXX.XXX, +XXXXXXXX.XXX, +XXXXXXX.XXX
ECEF (X,Y,Z) Velocity* (m/s): +XXXX.XXX, +XXXX.XXX, +XXXX.XXX
LVLH to BODY quaternion (S,X,Y,Z): +X.XXXXXXX, +X.XXXXXXX, +X.XXXXXXX, +X.XXXXXXX
Inertial body rates (X,Y,Z) (deg/s): +X.XXXXXXX, +X.XXXXXXX, +X.XXXXXXX
Apogee Altitude** (km): +XXXXX.XXX
Perigee Altitude** (km): +XXX.XXX
Inclination (deg): +XX.XXX
Argument of Perigee (deg): +XXX.XXX
Longitude of the Asc. Node*** (deg): +XXX.XXX
True Anomaly (deg): +XX.XXX

Notes:
* ECEF velocity is Earth relative
** Apogee/Perigee altitude assumes a spherical Earth, 6378.137 km radius
*** LAN is defined as the angle between Greenwich Meridian (Earth longitude 0) and the ascending node

Post-Launch Example
# SpaceX OPM output for XXX Mission

# Notes:
# - ECEF velocity is Earth relative
# - Apogee/Perigee altitude assumes a spherical Earth, 6378.137 km radius
# - Orbital elements are computed in an inertial frame realized by inertially
# freezing the WGS84 ECEF frame at time of current state
# - State is post-deployment, so includes separation delta-velocity

header:
generation_date: YYYY-MM-DD-Day-HH-MM-SS
launch_date: YYYY-MM-DD-Day-HH-MM-SS

deployments:

- name: payload-xxx
sequence_number: 1
mission_time_s: +XX.XX
date: YYYY-MM-DD-Day-HH-MM-SS
r_ecef_m: [+XXXXXX.XXX, +XXXXXX.XXX, +XXXXXX.XXX]
v_ecef_m_per_s: [+XXXX.XXX, +XXXX.XXX, +XXXX.XXX]
mean_perigee_altitude_km: +XXX.XXX
mean_apogee_altitude_km: +XXX.XXX
mean_inclination_deg: +XX.XXX
mean_argument_of_perigee_deg: +XXX.XXX
mean_longitude_ascending_node_deg: +XXX.XXX
mean_mean_anomaly_deg: +XX.XXX
ballistic_coef_kg_per_m2: +XX.XX

- name: payload-xxx
sequence_number: 2
mission_time_s: +XX.XX
date: YYYY-MM-DD-Day-HH-MM-SS
r_ecef_m: [+XXXXXX.XXX, +XXXXXX.XXX, +XXXXXX.XXX]
v_ecef_m_per_s: [+XXXX.XXX, +XXXX.XXX, +XXXX.XXX]
mean_perigee_altitude_km: +XXX.XXX
mean_apogee_altitude_km: +XXX.XXX
mean_inclination_deg: +XX.XXX
mean_argument_of_perigee_deg: +XXX.XXX
mean_longitude_ascending_node_deg: +XXX.XXX
mean_mean_anomaly_deg: +XX.XXX
ballistic_coef_kg_per_m2: +XX.XX

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

[Insert Company Logo] [Insert Company Name]

[Insert Company Address]

To: Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX)

From: [Insert Company Name]
Date: [Insert Date]
Subject: [Payload Name] Payload Licensing Certification Letter

[Insert description of Payload]

[Insert Company] certifies that:

(1) it has obtained all required Payload Licenses, and

(2) it has reviewed and understood the Hazardous Materials Table found at
https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/49/172.101 and accurately provided to SpaceX the list of
Hazardous materials and quantities found within the Payload (via the FAA Payload review
information template provided by SpaceX), and
(3) it has adhered to all applicable registration requirements pursuant to the Convention on Registration
of Objects Launched into Outer Space, and
(4) all information submitted to SpaceX and/or to licensing agencies regarding its Payload is complete
and accurate.

Sincerely,

[Insert Signature]

[Insert Company]

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 CAKE TOPPER PAYLOAD USER’S GUIDE V2

The deliverables described in this appendix correspond to SpaceX and Customer deliverables and corresponding due
dates defined in Table 1 of the Payload contract’s statement of work.

Table G-1: SpaceX Deliverables

Milestone SpaceX Deliverables Description
Agreement Signed Agreement Copy of the Agreement signed by SpaceX.
Signature TAA questionnaire or Representations and certifications for Customer to complete for TAA application (if
Export Compliance not already provided prior to Agreement signature) or Export Compliance Agreement
Agreement template between US parties and SpaceX.
Payload questionnaire Request for preliminary information on the Payload that SpaceX will use in support of
early internal analyses and program deliverables.
FAA cross-waiver Agreement for waiver of claims and assumption of responsibility for licensed launch,
template to be filled out by Customer, SpaceX and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Mission Introduction to the Launch Range, Launch Range processes, and how
Launch Range
Integration SpaceX/Customer/Launch Range will interface with each other during the campaign.
introduction
Kickoff Customer is also provided a copy of the safety regulations at the Launch Site.
Payload Range Safety Summary of Range Safety submissions required for Rideshare Payloads.
requirements
Range Safety submission Document templates for the Range Safety submission deliverables.
document templates
Launch Site Facility User’s Guides covering SpaceX Launch Site facilities for Vandenberg Space Force
User’s Guide Base (VSFB) and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS).
ICD template Preliminary draft of the ICD containing placeholders for mission-specific
requirements and other interface information to be developed and populated during
the course of the launch campaign. The ICD defines the Mission requirements and
interfaces between Customer and SpaceX systems.
A worksheet for the Customer to complete which serves as a companion document
Dynamic model
to accompany the Customer Payload dynamics model (reference Appendix B)
worksheet
delivery.
A worksheet for the Customer to complete which describes the Payload mass
Mass properties
properties, including its center of gravity, moments of inertia and products of inertia
worksheet
for the Payload, broken up into fly-away and stay-behind portions.
Payload transmitter
A worksheet for Customer to use to verify Payload transmitter turn on times.
verification worksheet
Electrical interface pinout A spreadsheet that describes the Launch Vehicle to Payload electrical harness
worksheet (AV2052) properties and pin-outs.
Payload EMI/EMC A spreadsheet template for the Customer to complete which describes the spacecraft
worksheet template radio frequency electromagnetic emissions and susceptibility.
(AV2054)
A worksheet for the Customer to complete which defines the test approach for the
Payload environmental
Payload including requested deviations to Section 6 and test schedule, which must
test approach worksheet
be approved by SpaceX.
FAA Payload review A spreadsheet template for the customer to complete which provides information to
information template support the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Payload review process.
Completion of Initial trajectory analysis SpaceX will develop a nominal trajectory optimized for the Mission. This nominal
Initial Mission results trajectory will be used to determine the nominal injection state vector, develop the
Integration Launch Window (or assess the Customer provided Launch Window), and assess free
Analyses molecular heating. This analysis also serves as an input to other SpaceX analyses
such as Coupled Loads Analysis.
Representative thermal SpaceX will provide a file detailing the attitude information of a representative
attitude parameters trajectory, as needed, for the Customer to perform a Payload thermal analysis.
Contamination analysis SpaceX shall provide the Customer with a contamination analysis that shows
results compliance to a maximum particulate contamination level of 1% obscuration and
maximum predicted organic contamination level of 4 mg/m2 onto any Payload
surface, from the time period of encapsulation through collision avoidance maneuver.
The presentation describes the inputs to these maximum levels and historical
capabilities demonstrating compliance.

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Milestone SpaceX Deliverables Description

Fairing air impingement SpaceX provides a generic analysis that characterizes the maximum predicted air or
analysis results GN2 impingement velocity on the exterior of the allowable fairing volume surfaces
from the fairing air conditioning system.
Payload separation Results of the separation analysis predicting the maximum linear and angular
analysis results separation rates of the Payload upon separation from the Launch Vehicle.
Spacecraft-to-LV Spreadsheet documenting the end-to-end pin-out of the Launch Vehicle umbilical,
Electrical interface details including electrical characteristics of each pin.
Spacecraft-to-LV Drawings (included in the ICD) capturing the mechanical interfaces of the Payload to
Mechanical interface the Launch Vehicle, including keep-out envelopes, relative clocking, electrical
details connectors, and fairing access door location(s).
ICD - initial Initial draft of the ICD to be reviewed by the Parties. Contains Mission requirements,
interface information and mutually agreed TBDs for information to be populated prior
to launch campaign.
Spacecraft to Fit check plan jointly A document detailing the fit check operations, equipment, procedures and roles and
Payload agreed with Customer responsibilities.
Adapter Fit Equipment packing list A list of equipment which SpaceX will bring to the spacecraft facility in support of the
Check (if fit check.
applicable)
Launch Launch campaign Launch planning checklist template to track Launch campaign documentation, GSE
Campaign planning checklist shipment list, Customer personnel attendance, Payload details related to Launch Site
Planning (template) operations, an OPM email distribution list, and Launch campaign action items.
Kickoff Launch campaign daily Template for daily Launch Site activity planning for Customer to provide details such
schedule (template) as stand-alone operations duration, SpaceX resource requirements, and hazardous
operations.
Licensing and insurance A template for Customer to capture SpaceX licensing inputs such as hazardous
information template materials and Customer crosswaiver inputs, as well as Payload insurer details, launch
and in-orbit subrogation waiver accounting, and requests for additional parties to be
included on SpaceX’s third-party liability insurance policy.
Payload and equipment General information regarding the process and requirements for delivering the
delivery information Payload and Customer GSE/EGSE to the Launch Site.
Launch Launch campaign
Preliminary draft of Launch campaign planning checklist including preliminary
Campaign planning checklist
Customer inputs.
Planning (preliminary)
Launch integration Schedule of Launch Site operations identifying Payload stand-alone activities and
schedule (preliminary) combined Payload/Launch Vehicle operations for the Mission.
Launch campaign plan Plan for Payload integration and Launch, including the facilities to be used, Payload
(preliminary) space allocation in those facilities, and the top-level operations to be performed for
both Launch Vehicle and Payload processing.
Completion of Predicted orbit injection Predicted state vector information, based on a nominal trajectory optimized for the
Final Mission report Mission. This state vector will be provided in SpaceX-defined format (reference
Integration Appendix E).
Analyses Coupled Loads Analysis Updated coupled loads analysis results based on L-4 month mission configuration.
(CLA) update (if Alternatively, SpaceX may provide confirmation that previously analyzed results are
applicable) enveloping of final mission configuration.
Payload clearance Confirmation of positive clearance between Payload and Launch Vehicle hardware
assessment results (or Co-Payloads) with worst case dynamic deflections. If necessary, identification of
locations with minimal Payload to Launch Vehicle hardware (or Co-Payload)
clearance, based on CAD modeling, will be provided.
EMI/EMC analysis results RF compatibility presented as described in Appendix E. Assesses whether the
emissions and susceptibilities of the Payload, Launch Vehicle, and ground systems
(including Co-Payloads during ground processing) are compatible with each other.
ICD - update Updated release of the ICD to be reviewed by the Parties and finalized for signature
at Launch Campaign Readiness Review.
Trajectory Trajectory analysis SpaceX analyzes the Mission trajectory and delivers a chart-based presentation
Monte-Carlo results, including monte describing the analysis results. The presentation will include:
Results carlo collision avoidance a. A description of the tools used in the analysis
analysis and ascent b. The nominal flight timeline, profile, and ground track
telemetry coverage c. The free molecular heating environment at fairing jettison

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Milestone SpaceX Deliverables Description

d. The predicted Launch Window, or assessment of the Launch Window (if Customer-
provided)
e. The Earth-Centered-Earth-Fixed (ECEF) Payload separation state vector
f. Payload and Co-Payload(s) deploy timeline (provided at L-4 months)
g. Ascent telemetry coverage (provided at L-4 months)
h. Orbit injection accuracy (Mission-unique Monte Carlo analysis results at L-2
months)
i. A discussion of requirements compliance in all these areas SpaceX analyzes and
implements a single Earth-referenced Launch trajectory, a single Earth-referenced
ascent attitude profile, and a single Earth-referenced Payload separation attitude,
which will be used for all dates and times throughout the Launch Period. SpaceX does
not implement multiple trajectories for various dates/times within the Launch Period
and does not provide sun-referenced or inertially-referenced attitudes during ascent
or for Payload separation. The trajectory will be analyzed using the maximum Payload
mass, including worst-case Payload mass properties tolerances. SpaceX does not
implement multiple trajectories for multiple masses and does not utilize nominal
Payload mass in the analyses.
SpaceX also performs an analysis to determine the need for a collision avoidance
maneuver (CAM) following separation of all payloads. This analysis will characterize
the relative separation distance between the second stage and the Payload and all
Co-Payloads for one orbit after separation. The analysis will show that all
combinations of any two bodies (Payload and all Co-Payloads and launch vehicle)
result in long term growth in relative distance. This analysis will assume that no
propulsive activities are executed by the Payload during the period analyzed. SpaceX
does not perform additional analyses with respect to collision avoidance of potential
debris or other space objects. SpaceX coordinates with applicable US regulatory
authorities, such as the FAA and the North American Aerospace Defense Command
(NORAD), to select a Launch Window that results in a sufficiently low risk of collision
with another space object during the Mission.
Launch Mission analysis updates, Updated analyses performed by mutual agreement of the Parties (for example,
Campaign if applicable revised trajectory results following a significant deviation of measured Payload mass
Readiness properties from the predicted Payload mass properties, or revised CLA results
Review following an exceedance of predicted Payload load limits after Payload testing).
SpaceX does not provide analysis updates for minor changes to Customer models or
inputs (for example, nominal reduction of Payload mass properties uncertainty due
to Payload maturity).
ICD revision for signature Revision of the ICD signed by the Parties.
ICD compliance matrix Lists the ICD requirements and verification status/evidence in accordance with the
and status approved verification matrix within the ICD.
Launch integration Approved schedule of Launch Site operations identifying Payload stand-alone
schedule (update) activities and combined Payload/Launch Vehicle operations.
Launch Campaign Plan Finalized plan for Payload arrival, integration and Launch, including the facilities to be
(update) used and the operations to be performed for both Launch Vehicle and Payload
processing. The plan also defines SpaceX and Customer roles, communications,
voice nets, mission constraints, and countdown steps.
Launch Range readiness Confirmation that the Launch Range is prepared to receive the Payload and begin
information Launch Site activities.
Launch Launch Campaign Kickoff Briefing to the Customer providing information about working at the launch site,
Campaign briefing including contact information, security, SpaceX policies, transportation, medical,
Kickoff facility overview, hazardous operations and natural hazards (e.g. lightning), and
personnel safety.
Facility readiness letter A letter to the Customer confirming that the payload processing facility is ready to
receive the spacecraft.
Launch Pre-arrival meeting (if Briefing to the Customer providing information about spacecraft arrival timeline and
Campaign arriving by air) operations ahead of the Payload aircraft offload.
Electrical checkout Documents detailing the results of the SpaceX electrical checkouts performed on the
results harnessing which interfaces with the spacecraft.
Facility environmental Reports of facility temperature, relative humidity and particle count are provided to
report the Customer point of contact.

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Milestone SpaceX Deliverables Description

Daily launch campaign Daily updates to the Launch Campaign schedule as coordinated in real time with the
schedule Customer.
Launch Vehicle readiness Signed confirmation from SpaceX to the Customer that the Launch Vehicle is ready
certificate for countdown and Launch.
Insurance Insurance Mission Slides provided to the Customer and their insurers including Mission Overview;
Mission Package Mission Timeline; Launch Vehicle Configuration; Significant Issues during Production,
Package Test, and Launch Vehicle Integration; Significant Remove and Replace during Launch
Campaign; Significant First Flight Items and Operations; Re-Flight Items; Other Items
of Note; Responses to Written Questions from Underwriters; for Reused Boosters
Only: “Life of the Booster”.
Launch Launch Vehicle Signed confirmation from SpaceX to the Customer that the Launch Vehicle is ready
Readiness Readiness Certificate for countdown and Launch, obtained after a Launch Readiness Review between
SpaceX and the Range.
Launch Orbit injection report Provides operational state vector information, based on best available telemetry
during the flight. This state vector will be provided in SpaceX-defined format
(reference Appendix I); Customer is solely responsible for conversion, if necessary, of
the data into a Customer-preferred format.

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Table G-2: Customer Deliverables

Milestone Customer Deliverables Description
Agreement Signed Agreement Copy of the Agreement signed by Customer.
signature Technical point(s) of Identification for the Customer point of contact that will interface with the SpaceX
contact mission manager.
Mission Completed TAA Representations and certifications from Customer for Technical Assistance Agreement
Integration questionnaire or Export (TAA) application (if not already completed prior to the Kickoff) or signed Export
Kickoff Compliance Agreement Compliance Agreement.
(ECA)
Completed Payload Preliminary information on the Payload provided by the Customer for SpaceX use in
questionnaire support of early internal analyses and program deliverables.
Payload drawings and Preliminary Payload CAD model, in accordance with Appendix C, and preliminary
CAD models Payload interface drawings.
Payload environmental Provide the test approach compared to Section 6 using the SpaceX provided worksheet,
test approach and including additional rationale for any requests for deviation to the requirements found
schedule in Section 6, including notching.
Propulsion system Customer provides SpaceX with propulsion system details for SpaceX evaluation in
details accordance Section 4.1.5 if applicable to the Payload.
Signed FAA cross- Customer completed FAA cross-waiver form, including company name and address,
waiver Payload name(s), and customer signature. Required by U.S. federal law in order to
launch. Late submissions may delay launch.
Mission Payload inputs to ICD Updated Payload interface information and system descriptions to be captured in the
Integration ICD, including electrical interface pin-out characteristics in a format provided by SpaceX.
Analysis Payload CAD model Updated Payload CAD model, in accordance with Appendix C.
Inputs update (if applicable)
Payload dynamic model Payload dynamic model, in accordance with Appendix B.
and completed
checkout worksheet
Payload mass Current best estimate of the Payload mass properties (mass, CoG, MoI, PoI, all with
properties tolerances).
Payload transmitter Customer verification that Payload transmitter turn on times are compatible with
verification Launch Vehicle frequency restrictions using the SpaceX-provided worksheet.
Completed Payload ICD A spreadsheet which describes the launch vehicle to spacecraft electrical harness
pinout worksheet properties and pin-outs.
(AV2052)
Completed Payload A spreadsheet which describes the spacecraft radio frequency electromagnetic
EMI/EMC worksheet emissions and susceptibility.
template (AV2054)
Completion of Range Safety Program A simplified and high-level overview of the Payload and its associated hazardous
Initial Mission Introduction systems in a condensed format for Launch Range safety authorities (template provided
Integration by SpaceX). The PI provides quick reference on Payload appearance, size, mass,
Analyses propellants, batteries, Pressure Vessels, heat pipes, and radiating sources. Detailed
information about the Payload is provided in the MSPSP.
Payload 91-710 Tailoring provides a means for formulating a Payload-specific edition of AFSPCMAN 91-
tailoring, initial 710 (Volumes 1, 3, and 6) and documents whether or not the Customer will meet
applicable safety requirements as written or achieve an equivalent level of safety
through a requested and approved alternative approach. The Customer’s tailoring
requests must be prepared in accordance with 91-710 Vol 1, Attachment 1 for SpaceX
to submit to the Launch Range safety authority for review and approval.
Payload MSPSP, draft Payload safety information providing the Launch Range safety authority with a
description of hazardous and safety-critical support equipment and flight hardware
associated with the Payload. The Customer’s MSPSP must be prepared in accordance
with 91-710 Vol 3, Attachment 1 for SpaceX to submit to the Launch Range safety
authority for review and approval.
Inputs to Launch Site Description of Customer Launch Site activities including Payload stand-alone
activity planning / joint processing, combined operations, Launch constraints, requested Launch Site services,
operations and Launch Site interfaces.
Spacecraft to Fit check plan jointly A document detailing the fit check operations, equipment, procedures and roles and
Payload agreed with Customer responsibilities.

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Milestone Customer Deliverables Description

Adapter Fit
Check (if
applicable)
Range Safety Payload 91-710 Tailoring provides a means for formulating a Payload-specific edition of AFSPCMAN 91-
Submission tailoring, final 710 (Volumes 1, 3, and 6) and documents whether or not the Customer will meet
applicable safety requirements as written or achieve an equivalent level of safety
through a requested and approved alternative approach. The Customer’s tailoring
requests must be prepared in accordance with 91-710 Vol 1, Attachment 1 for SpaceX
to submit to the Launch Range safety authority for review and approval.
FAA Licensing Completed FAA Payload Completed Payload review information spreadsheet, including Payload name, quantity,
Inputs review information form type, intended operations, life span, disposal plan, physical characteristics, Payload
owner, Payload operator, Payload registration, operational orbit(s), and hazardous
materials. Required by U.S. federal law in order to launch. Late submissions may delay
launch.
Launch List of emails for launch Customer-provided list of emails for potential launch site personnel in order to fill out
Campaign site badging access badge access paperwork online.
Planning
Range Safety Payload Ground The Payload Ground Operations Plan (GOP) provides a detailed description of the
Submission Operations Plan, draft hazardous and safety critical operations associated with the Payload and its ground
support equipment. The Payload GOP contains a description of planned operations and
the hazard analysis of those operations. The Customer’s GOP must be prepared in
accordance with 91-710 Vol 6, Attachment 1 for SpaceX to submit to the Launch Range
safety authority for review and approval.
Certification Data for Certification data for Payload hazardous systems. A system is deemed hazardous if it
Payload Hazardous includes any of the following: Pressure Vessels (over 250 psi), batteries, hazardous
Systems materials, non-ionizing and ionizing radiation systems, hazardous propulsion systems,
or ordnance. Data must also be provided for ground support equipment (for example,
lift slings).
Trajectory Updated mass Customer to provide SpaceX refined Payload mass properties inputs for the Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo properties analysis of the nominal trajectory using the Payload mass properties template provided
Inputs by SpaceX. Updates must fall within previously provided uncertainty bounds.
Payload Payload environmental Customer to provide to SpaceX final environmental verification test and/or analysis
Environmental verification reports results in order to show compliance to Section 3.3 and in accordance with the SpaceX
Verification approved Payload environmental test approach.
Final Range Payload 91-710 Signed confirmation from Customer to SpaceX, in the form of the letter as specified in
Safety Compliance Letter the SpaceX Range document templates that the Payload complies with all Range Safety
Submission requirements.
Payload MSPSP, final Payload safety information providing the Launch Range safety authority with a
description of hazardous and safety-critical support equipment and flight hardware
associated with the Payload. The Customer’s MSPSP must be prepared in accordance
with 91-710 Vol 3, Attachment 1 for SpaceX to submit to the Launch Range safety
authority for review and approval. The final Payload MSPSP must include Customer’s
qualification data for hazardous systems and certification data for hazardous systems.
Payload Ground The Payload Ground Operations Plan (GOP) provides a detailed description of the
Operations Plan, final hazardous and safety critical operations associated with the Payload and its ground
support equipment. The Payload GOP contains a description of planned operations and
the hazard analysis of those operations. The Customer’s GOP must be prepared in
accordance with 91-710 Vol 6, Attachment 1 for SpaceX to submit to the Launch Range
safety authority for review and approval.
GOP-defined Hazardous Payload procedures provide detailed, step-by-step descriptions of the manner in which
Procedures Customer’s hazardous and safety critical operations will be accomplished at the Launch
Site. These procedures are the basis from which approval to start hazardous or safety
critical operations are obtained from the Launch Range safety authority. The Customer’s
hazardous procedures must be prepared in accordance with 91-710 Vol 6, Attachment
2 for SpaceX to submit to the Launch Range safety authority for review and approval.
Customer is strongly encouraged to deliver procedures earlier than 45 days before
hardware arrival at the Launch Site. Procedures must be in English.
Medical Certificates for Medical certificates of good health for personnel using SCAPE or SCBA (self-contained
SCAPE/SCBA Personnel breathing apparatus) at the Launch Site. Medical certificates for SCAPE/SCBA must be

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Milestone Customer Deliverables Description

valid throughout the expected duration of the campaign and contain all information
required by NASA medical. Customer must provide Medical Exam information per KSC
OCH-I-0106 and KSC Respirator Medical Evaluation questionnaire per KSC16-540V2.
Propellant arrival The Payload propellant arrival plan describes the methods and logistics of Customer’s
information propellant shipment to the Launch Site.
Launch Final inputs to launch Customer final inputs to the launch campaign checklist including status for launch
Campaign campaign checklist campaign documentation, GSE shipment list, Customer personnel attendance, Payload
Readiness details related to Launch Site operations, and OPM email distribution list.
Review Final inputs to launch Customer final inputs describing Launch Site activities required in the launch campaign
campaign daily daily schedule for Payload stand-alone processing.
schedule
Badging details filled Customer details including personal information, and passport/visa scans and photos
out via Customer Portal necessary for access to the Launch Site badging completed online.
Completed licensing Customer provides the Hazardous Materials list in support of SpaceX’s application of
and insurance an FAA license for the mission as well as crosswaiver inputs. If applicable, evidence of
information template insurance for the Payload, including identification of insurer point of contact and if
Customer has procured Payload insurance, Customer to provide evidence of express
waivers of subrogation as to SpaceX and its Related Third Parties. If applicable,
Customer identifies any parties that would like to be listed as additional insured on the
SpaceX procured third-party liability insurance.
Hourly Schedule for Launch Range safety scheduling information of hourly hazardous Payload operations.
Hazardous Operations Required by the Launch Range safety authorities for awareness and oversight of
hazardous Payload operations.
Draft Dates and Times Schedule of Customer’s expected EGSE transfers and movements between facilities at
for EGSE Transfers the Launch Site. SpaceX requires awareness of Customer’s hardware transfer plans, to
support the equipment movements and confirm personnel availability to assist with the
transfer.
Plan for Payload and The Payload and GSE arrival plan describes the methods and logistics of Customer’s
GSE arrival at the hardware arrival at the Launch Site.
Launch Site
Payload insurance and Evidence of insurance for the Payload, Customer property, equipment and personnel
cross-waivers (with express waivers of subrogation as to SpaceX and its Related Third
Parties). Evidence that the cross-waivers have been extended to (i) its Payload
manufacturer(s); (ii) Related Third Parties with any ownership interest in the Payload;
(iii) Customer’s direct Customers for the Payload; and (iv) any other Related Third
Parties, respective contractors, subcontractors and insurers, as requested by SpaceX.
Each must waive (in writing) the right to sue or otherwise bring a claim against SpaceX
or SpaceX’s Related Third Parties, Co-Payload Customers or their Related Third Parties,
or the US Government or its contractors or subcontractors for any injury, death, property
loss or damage (including loss of or damage to the Payload, the Co- Payload(s), the
Launch Vehicle, or other financial loss) sustained by them or any of their employees,
officers, directors or agents, arising out of or related to activities relating to the
performance of the Agreement.
Launch and In-Orbit Customer to provide evidence that the insurer has waived subrogation rights.
Insurer Subrogation
Waiver
Launch Launch site awareness All Customer personnel participating in the Launch Campaign complete online Launch
Campaign training complete Site awareness training prior to arrival at the Launch Site.
Kickoff
Launch Payload mass Measured Payload mass, including adjustments for any non-flight items (e.g. remove-
Campaign properties - measured before-flight covers) which remained on the Payload during the final lift to Launch
wet mass Vehicle hardware during join mating operations with SpaceX.
Launch Payload Launch Signed confirmation from Customer to SpaceX, in the form of the letter as determined
Readiness Readiness Certificate by SpaceX, that the Payload is ready for countdown and Launch.
Flight Report Coordination with the Customer coordination for space object identification as described in Section 9.5.7.
space situational
agency
Payload operations Brief summary of the current Payload status, as well as a launch and early operations
status informational summary.

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SpaceX will provide a document template requesting the information defined in Table H-1.

Table H-1: Payload Constituent Details

Payload Constituent (satellite, separation system, etc.) Constituent #1 Constituent #2 Constituent # XX

Owner
Address (including Country) of Owner
Manufacturer
Address (including country) of Manufacturer
Operator
Address (including country) of Operator
End User
Address (including country) of End User(s)
Delivery on Orbit User
Delivery on Orbit User Address
End Use
General Description
Propulsion System & Type
CubeSat Size (i.e. #U) if applicable
Quantity of Constituents within Payload

SpaceX may approve or deny one or more of the requested Payload Constituents, including if SpaceX determines it is
unable to obtain regulatory approvals. Customer is allowed to propose an alternate Payload Constituent in place of any
rejected Payload Constituent. After Mission integration analyses have begun SpaceX may reject a proposed alternate
Payload Constituent if the proposed Payload Constituent invalidates the Mission integration analyses (as determined by
SpaceX) or invalidates any licensing or regulatory approvals. SpaceX’s approval is at the sole discretion of SpaceX while
timely approval for all items within the Payload be the sole responsibility of the Customer. Customer’s failure to receive
approval for any item within the Payload may result in rebooking and associated fees.

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SpaceX offers the optional services described in this section for an additional cost. Please contact SpaceX for details.

Table I-1: Optional Services

Service Description Select By
SpaceX offers a Payload Adapter (PLA) for spacecraft with 937mm,
1194mm, and 1666 mm interfaces as a standard service.
Non-Standard/Custom Payload Adapter L-15 months
Customers with spacecraft that have different sizes should reach
out to SpaceX for details.
SpaceX provides access to a flight Launch Vehicle payload adapter
to support a Payload to Launch Vehicle shock test. The shock test
shall be performed per a mutually agreed schedule at a mutually
Spacecraft Shock Test at Customer facility L-12 months
agreed facility. This optional service includes two firings and travel
to a single test event. It is anticipated the shock test will take no
more than two days.
Acoustic blankets can be provided inside the fairing to mitigate
Fairing Acoustic Blankets L-12 months
acoustic levels
Customers may elect to have the spacecraft powered ON during
Payload powered ON during ascent ascent. Payload subject to electromagnetic MPE in Section 4.1.7 L-12 months
and must demonstrate verification per Section 6.7.7.
Additional Processing Days in the payload SpaceX can provide additional processing days, not to exceed 5
L-6 months
processing facility (PPF) additional days, pending availability at the time of request.
Spacecraft may transmit openly in the PPF with prior notice and
FCC License for RF testing in the PPF coordination with SpaceX, who will procure the FCC license L-6 months
required for the testing.
Customers may have Go/No Go input on day of Launch. Customers
may select “No Go” on the launch attempt on day of launch, for a
Day-of-launch Go/No Go Launch Criteria L-3 months
fee. Customers must provide launch criteria for Go/No Go on the
day of launch for this option.

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“Agreement” refers to the Launch Services Agreement between SpaceX and the Customer.

“Cake Topper Payload” refers to a medium-sized (500-2500 kg) Payload, forward mounted on a stack of rideshare
hardware.

“CSLA” means the Commercial Space Launch Act of 1988, as amended, 51 U.S.C. §§ 50901-50923 and the regulations
issued pursuant thereto, including the Commercial Space Transportation Regulations, 14 C.F.R. Parts 400-460.

“Co- Payload” means any payload of a Customer of SpaceX, other than Customer, that is manifested on the same Mission
as Customer.

“Co-Payload Customer” means any Customer of SpaceX other than Customer that has a payload manifested on the
same Mission as Customer.

“Customer” shall have the meaning set forth in the signature page of the Terms and Conditions.

“Excusable Delays” shall mean a delay arising from causes beyond the control of the affected party, including acts of
god or government (except to the extent such acts are undertaken by the government that owns or controls a party or
of which a party is a part), terrorism, riot, revolution, hijacking, fire, embargo, sabotage, Launch Range ‘no go’
determinations or unavailability, or priority determinations by the US Government under the Defense Priorities and
Allocations System (15 CFR Part 700).

“EAR” means the Export Administration Regulations administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security, US Department
of Commerce, 15 C.F.R. Parts 730-744, pursuant to the Export Control Reform Act of 2018.

“End of Mission,” is defined by the mission-specific second stage re-entry time (usually a maximum of 1 hour, or 3600
seconds, after the last deploy).

“Interface Control Document” means that document which shall be prepared by SpaceX with data to be supplied by
Customer, negotiated in good faith, and mutually agreed upon in writing by both Parties prior to the beginning of the
Launch Period. The Interface Control Document shall supersede any interface requirements document.

“ITAR” means the International Traffic in Arms Regulations administered by the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls,
US Department of State, 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130, pursuant to the Arms Export Control Act of 1976, as amended, 22
U.S.C. § 2778.

“L” means Launch Date and “L-xx” means the date xx months prior to the Launch Date (for example, if the Launch Date
is currently July 1, 2018, L-6 means January 1, 2018).

“Launch” means Intentional Ignition followed by either: (a) Lift-Off or (b) the loss or destruction of the Payload or the
Launch Vehicle (or both).

“Launch Activities” means the activities related to the performance of this Agreement following the arrival of the Payload
or Launch Vehicle at the Launch Site, whichever comes first, including those prescribed by the CSLA and the terms of
the launch license issued to SpaceX pursuant thereto for the Launch.

“Launch Campaign” means the activities and discussions leading up to and including Payload to Launch Vehicle
integration at the Launch Site through Launch.

“Launch Complex” means the SpaceX-operated facility where the Launch Vehicle is integrated and from which the
Launch Vehicle is launched.

“Launch Date” shall have the meaning set forth in the LSA. If the Launch Date has not yet been established (as
determined solely by SpaceX), the Launch Date shall be deemed to be the first day of the Launch Period. Any delay shall
not change the payment due dates in the Terms and Conditions.

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“Launch Range” means the US Governmental authorities and office with jurisdiction over the Launch Site.

“Launch Services” means those services described in this SOW to be performed by SpaceX.

“Launch Site” means the SpaceX launch facility at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station or another SpaceX launch facility
capable of supporting the Launch Services, as determined by SpaceX.

“Launch Vehicle” shall mean a launch vehicle capable of achieving Customer’s orbital parameter requirements as set
forth in Section 1 of the SOW.

“Launch Window” shall mean the time period established by SpaceX during which the Launch is scheduled to occur on
the Launch Date.

“Licenses” shall mean all licenses, authorizations, clearances, approvals and permits necessary for each Party to carry
out its respective obligations under the Agreement. Each Party agrees to provide reasonable assistance to the other
Party as necessary to obtain such Licenses.

“Material Breach” means a breach in which the non-breaching party did not receive the “substantial benefit” of the bargain
under the Agreement. To exercise its right to terminate for Material Breach, Customer shall notify SpaceX of this election
to terminate in writing and within thirty (30) days following the conclusion of the ninety (90) day cure period. For the
sake of clarity, neither (i) a delay nor ii) a Launch or Launch Activities resulting in the loss or destruction of the Payload,
shall be deemed a Material Breach by SpaceX hereunder, and except as expressly stated in the Termination section of
the Terms and Conditions, nothing in this Agreement shall be construed in any way as obligating SpaceX to refund any
payment made in connection with any Launch Services performed hereunder.

“Parties” shall mean Customer and SpaceX.

“Party” shall mean Customer or SpaceX.

“Payload” shall mean the Customer spacecraft. The Payload shall not contain any hosted or auxiliary spacecraft provided
by the Customer without the written mutual agreement of SpaceX.

“Pressure Vessel” is any system containing more than 20,000 J of stored energy (pneumatic and chemical energy) or a
MEOP greater than 100 PsiD (6.9 barD).

“Pressure System” is any system that is intended to be pressurized beyond 0.5 atmospheres. This includes both
Pressure Vessels and pressure components like valves, fittings, and tubes that have potential to see internal pressure in
the time between Customer delivery and on-orbit deployment.

“Range Safety” refers to the specific safety branch of the Launch Range, the US Governmental authorities and office
with jurisdiction over the Launch Site.

“Related Third Parties” means (a) the Parties’ and Co- Payload Customer(s)’ respective contractors and subcontractors
involved in the performance of this Agreement and their respective directors, officers, employees, and agents; (b) the
Parties’ and Co- Payload Customer(s)’ respective directors, officers, employees, and agents; and (c) any entity or person
with any financial, property or other material interest in the Payload, Co- Payload(s), the Launch Vehicle or the ground
support equipment.

“Rideshare” means in reference to the SpaceX Rideshare Program offering for small satellite launch services.

“Rideshare Program” is the SpaceX offering for small satellite launch services.

“Terms and Conditions” means the Terms and Conditions to which the SOW is attached.

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SpaceX will perform analysis demonstrating radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) compatibility
between the Payload and Launch Vehicle. This analysis will couple the emissions and susceptibility of the Launch Vehicle
systems with the Payload emission and susceptibility provided by the Customer. The Customer shall provide SpaceX
the Payload RF information described below in the form of the AV2054 worksheet.

Outputs to the Customer are predicted compatibility and/or interference areas across the megahertz (MHz) to gigahertz
(GHz) frequency spectrum.

Inputs Required from Customer:

• Payload intentional radiated emissions in the range from 10MHz to 18GHz (Payload transmitters) including:
o Frequency in MHz
o Bandwidth in MHz
o Electric field in dBµV/m at the separation plane
o Effective isotropically radiated power (EIRP)1
• Payload spurious radiated emissions in the range from 10MHz to 18GHz (all emission other than Payload
transmitters)
o Frequency in MHz
o Electric field in dBµV/m at the separation plane
• Payload susceptibility to E-field emissions in the range from 10MHz to 18GHz (Payload receivers/notches)
o Frequency in MHz
o Electric field in dBµV/m at the Payload receiver
o Threshold sensitivity receive power (of Payload receivers)
• Payload susceptibility to spurious E-field emissions in the range from 10MHz to 18GHz (other than receive
notches)
o Frequency in MHz
o Electric field in dBµV/m at the separation plane

Notes:
1
SpaceX can accept transmitter power and antenna gain in place of EIRP.

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