SSPA Successfully Completed with TRL5 – A Step Forward in X-Band Amplifier Development
SpaceForest, in collaboration with Tesat-Spacecom, has successfully completed the ESA project “Highly Integrated Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) Operating in X Band”, reaching Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL5). This marks a significant milestone in the development of next-generation RF technologies for the Space 4.0 market.
TRL5 Milestone in X-Band
The project began in October 2018 with the aim to develop a highly integrated SSPA for X-band, designed for 7 years of operation in low Earth orbit (LEO). The amplifier addresses the needs of modern downlink transmittersused in Earth observation satellite constellations, delivering stable, high output power with very high power-added efficiency (PAE) across a wide temperature range.
Achieving TRL5 means that the engineering model of the SSPA has been tested successfully in laboratory conditions, proving its performance and readiness for further development toward space qualification.
Toward TRL7 and Space-Ready Solutions
With TRL5 achieved, the next step is clear. The newly launched ESA project titled “Development of highly integrated low-cost X-band SSPA EQM” is already underway. A kick-off meeting took place at SpaceForest’s headquarters in Gdynia, Poland. The goal is to advance the amplifier to TRL7, demonstrating a space-qualified prototype in a relevant orbital environment.
This project not only strengthens SpaceForest’s position in satellite communication systems, but also highlights the company’s capacity for RF circuit design, power amplifier development and microwave engineering for demanding space applications.
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