Ka-Band Antenna Array Subsystem for Launchers Communication via Data Relay

• Country: Netherlands
• Summary: Ka-Band Antenna Array Subsystem for Launchers Communication via Data Relay
• NLT Ref No: 104172449
• Deadline: 22 Aug 2024
• Financier: Other Funding Agencies
• Purchaser Ownership: Government
• Tender Value: Refer Document
• Notice Type: Tender
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• Description:
• Tenders are invited for Ka-Band Antenna Array Subsystem for Launchers Communication via Data Relay. The current TM link between the launcher and ground is done through the different ground station depending on the specific trajectory. These ground stations services are costly. A lower cost alternative would be to use a Relay System such as EDRS, but for this purpose a K-band antenna is needed to be installed. As the K band presents a bigger attenuation than the current S band a low profile,K band array is needed to increase the gain and cope with the losses. In order to maintain the link while the launcher is rotating it is necessary to constantly point the array towards the Relay satellite. The system design needs to be robust and independent fromthe launcher central computer, in order to maintain the communication in the event of a major problem of the launcher. The pointingcontrol function is therefore preferred to be implemented inside the communication subsystem. The design options for the control function are to be evaluated at the beginning of the activity (e.g. use of GNSS signal and/or passive retrodirective pointing using forward link beacon signal). The design is aimed at covering all the requirements of a launcher external element including the low profile, extreme mechanical and thermal conditions taking into account the thermal dissipation, and the typical TED (Thermo-Elastic Distortion). The activity also studies the end to end link system design (including link budget), to have a robust link with continuousconnection during the complete trajectory, leading to definition of key design elements including antenna gain, size, number of elements, RF losses, bandwidth, transmit RF power, data rates and associated modulation and coding to be used. The modulation and coding is to be in compliance with relevant standards and compatible with Data Relay systems in Ka-Band. The critical functions breadboarding is to include the representative elements to prove the complete system, including at least Ka-Band phased array elements and pointing control. The test results on performance of the antenna subsystem are fed into a final analysis on the end-to end system performance and robustness, to confirm the system design. This activity encompasses the following tasks:- Requirements Review and Consolidation- Preliminary Design- Breadboard implementation- Breadboard testing- Way forward towards development to reach flight model and recommendation on remaining onboard elements to be developed/completed Open Date: 11/07/2024 17:59 CET Closing Date: 22/08/2024 13:00 CET Price Range: 500 KEURO
• Documents:

 Tender Notice