Description
The objective of the activity is to carry out characterisation of the W-band channel affected by diurnal and long duration atmospheric changes, enabling future W-band system sizing. The activity will design, develop and test a W-band terminal hosted on a geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) spacecraft, and the associated ground terminals. Targeted Improvements:Increase in the acquisition time of W-band channel measurements for stable atmospheric paths by several orders of magnitude. Provide characterisation of atmospheric effects not existing today (including scintillation). Description: Complementary to W-band channel measurements currently being carriedfrom a low Earth orbit platform, measurements from a GEO orbit are needed for long-term systematic monitoring of the atmospheric channel for accurate characterisation of atmospheric effects (e.g., scintillation).This activity will develop the required space and ground terminals for W-band signal transmission and reception, as well as the hosting and operation of an experimental payload in orbit. In-orbit experiment activities will include:- Characterisation of the effects of diurnal atmospheric changes- Long durationmeasurements (including rainy seasons) enabling seasonal channel characterisation High-power solid-state W-Band technology characterisation in a GEO environment.The required space and ground terminals shall be designed to enable accurate W-band system sizing, thanks to a broad range of seasonal atmospheric channel characterisations within the field of view provided by the GEO orbit. Measurements will be carried out over the period of at least one year and up to three years.Footnote: On Delegation Request activities will only be initiated on the explicit request of at least one National Delegation.