Description
The objective of this activity is to design and develop a pair of prototype model miniaturised transponders inter-satellite link for small satellite LEO applications.
Targeted Improvements: The capability of using inter-satellite links between smaller satellites is essential for a number of missions due to timeliness requirements: this technology is not available in Europe for high bandwidth (< 40 Mbps) applications.
A number of missions based on small satellites are being contemplated within European industry, which will require communications between satellites. Such inter-satellite links will need to cope with 20-40 Mbps over a 3000 km distance, < 15 W DC power, <1-2 W RF.
Current inter-satellite links in LEO (e.g. Iridium) are based on products from U.S. suppliers and only suitable for larger satellite platforms. Since 2013, U.S. industry is being funded to develop LEO inter-satellite links also suitable for smaller satellite applications.
The activity shall establish the requirements for RF inter-satellite links in collaboration with prospective users and the small satellite community of ESA member states. Following the validation of the requirements, the activity shall design, develop and test a pair of transceivers for small satellite platforms. The activity will select from the range of frequencies likely to be accessible to such missions (e.g. Kaor V-Bands, etc.).
On-going developments for products for small satellites in the earth observation Ka-band shall be considered.
Within the activity, a flight demonstration opportunity for the development hardware would be sought.
Tender Specifics