Hypervelocity Impact Laboratory

Hypervelocity Impact Simulations:

The Open University has a unique set of hypervelocity impact facilities that can be used to simulate impact processes in extraterrestrial environments and on Earth. Furthermore, the facilities can be used to test the functionality and resilience of mission spacecraft assemblies, understand how different materials respond to extreme shock conditions, and consider innovative hypervelocity power solutions.

We welcome all enquiries for conducting experiments in our laboratories. Please contact HVI SPE Labs for more information.

• All-Axis Light Gas Gun: Capable of simulating high-speed impacts, providing valuable insights into planetary collision phenomena.
• Van de Graaff Accelerator: Used for generating high-energy particle beams to replicate space radiation environments and study material responses.