C-BAND INTER-SATELLITE LINK (PRIORITY 2) (ARTES AT 5A.054)

Description

Objective: Develop a low-cost C-band inter-satellite link terminal for use between LEO and GEO satellites.

Targeted Improvements: Proposed activity shall lead to a low cost inter-satellite link solution for satellite missions. The solution may benefitfrom existing - globally available - C-band GEO infrastructure.

Description: The use of FSS C-band satellites for providing a low-date rate inter-satellite link between LEO to GEO has been considered by industry in ESA member states.The advantage of such an approach is the global availability of C-band, at moderate costs compared to e.g. L-band. Typically, rates of 10-20 kbps can be reached with limited RF power, for example using spread spectrum solutions. The required transceivers for such an application can be implemented using off -the-shelf software defined components, which are regularlyused in smaller satellites.

The starting point for this development is the preliminary requirements for such a service as already considered by European industry. Regulatory wise, the concept is similar to the usage of L-band on LEO satellites.

The activity shall consolidate requirements and operational concepts, specify the overall architecture, and develop and test the C-band terminal.

The activity shall actively seek embarkation opportunities on future missions.

Priority 2 activities will only be initiated on the explicit request of at least one delegation.

Tender Specifics