Up-Screening Commercial Off-the-Shelf RF Components for Space Applications

Overview

Over the last decade, the reduction in satellite launch costs has transformed a traditionally government-led industry with high barriers to entry to a commercially led industry funded by private companies for a fraction of the cost. RF/microwave components are critical to all satellite communication systems and, until recently, were custom designed for space applications. This tailored approach created high costs, extended development timelines, and the inability to reuse previous components. As more private companies enter the space market, there is a trend to decrease development cycles and reduce costs on mission critical designs. One approach to meet these objectives is the utilization of commercial off-the-shelf components and various up-screening techniques that ensure the components will survive the harsh environments of space. From broadband internet service and direct space to cellular communication and weather monitoring, the new space economy allows companies to access a wide range of high-performance RF components that were historically prohibitively expensive.