zeeb

We aim to send all the changes we make here upstream, but this may take time. This kernel allows us to ship new features faster, as we do not have to adhere to the upstream release schedule (and, for better or worse, code standards). We also rely on it to test and prototype patches before sending them upstream, which is crucial because we maintainers cannot test on all Surface devices (which also means we may break things along the way).

So should you install this custom kernel and the associated packages? It depends: We generally recommend you try your standard distribution kernel first. If that works well for you, great! But if you're missing any features or experiencing issues, take a look at our feature matrix and give our kernel and packages a try. If your device is not listed as supported yet, feel free to open an issue.

RUAG's clamp-bands and separation system have a very well characterized Shock Response Spectrum [0, pg. 4], which would have been accounted for in the design of JWST. But the spacecraft and satellite usually separate after the initial shock of the explosive bolt and clamp-band de-tensioning, so they may need to investigate any coupling or recontact of the clamp-band.

If we're lucky they had some accelerometers running during integration and can review actual response data.