Goddard Engineering and Technology Directorate

Spacecraft Systems Development and Integration Facility (SSDIF)

James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Primary Mirror Assembly in the Spacecraft Systems Development and Integration Facility (SSDIF).
James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Primary Mirror Assembly in the Spacecraft Systems Development and Integration Facility (SSDIF).

Ensuring Contamination-Free Environments

The Spacecraft Systems Development and Integration Facility (SSDIF), established in 1989, is the largest ISO 7 cleanroom in the United States, spanning 1.3 million cubic feet. Originally designed to accommodate two simultaneous space shuttle payloads, it now serves as the primary hub for NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) large-scale projects.

This state-of-the-art cleanroom features a horizontal laminar flow design and is supported by two air handlers that circulate 24,500 cubic feet of air per minute. Environmental conditions are tightly controlled, with temperature maintained at 68 ± 2°F and relative humidity at 45% ± 5%. These systems are monitored remotely 24/7 to ensure optimal conditions.

To support precise Integration and Test (I&T) activities, the cleanroom is equipped with two 20-ton cranes, each with microspeed controls. Additionally, the facility provides compressed air and ultra-high-purity nitrogen for air padding and purge operations, ensuring a contamination-free environment for spacecraft assembly and testing.

The Spacecraft Systems Development and Integration Facility (SSDIF) is managed by ETD’s Mechanical Systems Division (MSD). Contact MSD for more information.