Deployable antennas are a key element of satellites enabling them to receive and transmit data. They are relevant for all types of space applications such as navigation, Earth observation, science and defence.
The need for the space sector to rely on space qualified technology with high level of quality, reliability, robustness, suitability to space harsh environment demonstrated by in-orbit demonstration and validation presents a challenge for the availability of antennas, especially large deployable antennas with a diameter at or above 5 meters. Additionally, the launch and deployment of large structures in space presents further technological and cost challenges.
It is important to explore novel approaches that can reduce development, manufacturing, launch and deployment costs for such large antennas, as well as approaches that can allow in-orbit manufacturing, disassembly, re-use and recycling of parts from defunct satellites, overall contributing to a higher sustainability of space infrastructure. Emerging technologies and concepts linked to the deployment and assembly/disassembly of such structures in orbit, as well as the re-use of parts are key for the future.
The expected outcomes of this pilot project are the following:
- Contribute to higher sustainability of space infrastructure by reinforcing the feasibility and potential of novel techniques linked to the
