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2023-11-10

Safran to Transform Space Tech with Flat Antennas

Safran Data Systems, a leading innovator in technology solutions, is developing a new generation of antennas that could revolutionise space exploration. These antennas are flat and require no mechanical movement, making them ideal for tracking constellations of satellites in low Earth orbit.

Electronically scanned antennas, whether for defence projects or civil satellite constellations, mark a significant technological leap. They harness electronic components to precisely control antenna direction, multiply beams, and enable discreet installation. These qualities are ideally suited for various applications, including electromagnetic intelligence gathering.

Bolstered by the support of CNES (Centre national d’études spatiales), a fully operational S-band hybrid prototype has been completed. It will undergo rigorous testing for satellite reception and spacecraft telemetry until mid-2024.

Looking Ahead

The next steps involve industrialisation and product launch for these compact antennas, which will complement Safran’s existing range, including IRIS (Integrated Rotorcraft Avionics Suite), LEGION (Low Earth Orbit Gateway for Internet of Things Network), VISION (Expanded Vision Systems), ORION (Observational Radio telescope for In-Orbit and Near-Earth Conditions), and SPARTE (Space Active Radar Threat Evaluation).

IRIS: The IRIS-240 is Safran Data Systems’ portable antenna that sets up in under two hours, supporting satellites.

LEGION: The LEGION 400 antenna is designed for Small Sats & Constellations, tackling challenges of enhanced connectivity, faster delivery, improved value, and flexibility. It meets the needs of Communication Satellite Constellations’ large volume requirements and the versatility required for Earth Observation satellite tracking antennas.

VISION: The VISION Series is a medium-sized ground station for satellite imagery in both commercial and defence applications. Its innovative e-Antenna architecture with the NuRoN suite simplifies infrastructure and operations through virtualised data and M&C (Monitoring and Control). While offering an optional Single Channel Monopulse autotrack in any band, the VISION is renowned for its reliable programme track, thanks to its highly precise pedestal. It’s an affordable, true Ka-band antenna available now, equipped with Safran Data Systems’ patented feed for seamless operations in the future.

ORION: The ORION Series is a comprehensive package with dual polarisation, monopulse tracking, and testing capabilities in all bands, including baseband equipment and services. It offers seamless deployment, easy start-up, and long service life across different environments. Ranging from 7.3 m to 13.5 m, ORION benefits from Safran’s expertise in radio frequency (RF) technology, mechanical systems, and software development. It features the patented tri-band S/X/Ka feed, ensuring compatibility with existing and future satellites.

SPARTE: The SPARTE 300 series is a dual-axis antenna, available in sizes from 1.8m (6 feet) to 3.0m (10 feet). Deployed for over a decade in mission-critical scenarios, it excels in telemetry reception. This versatile series serves applications like aircraft tracking and high-speed targets with great dynamics. With a swift setup on a road trailer, it becomes a mobile version, and a shipborne variant ensures precision tracking at sea.

Advanced Antennas

Developed from 2014 in collaboration with the X-Selans joint laboratory and XLIM university laboratory in Limoges, experts in radiating elements, this advanced technology received support from CNES.

Safran Data Systems aims to advance ground station technology for space communication, solidifying its leadership in space and flight test ground stations.

The company offers a complete range of antennas for airborne, naval and land-based applications. Comprising multiple antenna modules, each generating and directing its own radar beam, they enable fast, accurate scanning over a wide area, outperforming traditional radar antennas.

Integrated into both military and civil aircraft programmes, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, Rafale and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, these antennas drastically improve the performance of radar systems. The company has pushed the innovation envelope with its exclusive AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) technology, called Sibylline, optimising performance and reliability.

Safran Data Systems is also involved in other antenna projects in the same segment, such as the CHOSE (Connectivité Haut Débit Optique et SatellitairE) project, funded by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC), which will demonstrate a Ka-band 2D electronically scanned antenna for on-board aircraft connectivity.

The SHIFT (Sustainable technologies enabling Future Telecom applications) project, funded by the European Union, will demonstrate an X-band multi-contact electronic scanning antenna that can receive signals from two satellites simultaneously for image telemetry.

This involvement in major collaborative projects highlights the reliability of Safran’s solutions in the strategically important space sector.

Ear-Like Electronic Scanning

To illustrate this concept, think of an ear as a receiver for sound waves. Traditionally, improving sound reception involves physically repositioning the ear, similar to how a satellite dish mechanically adjusts its reflector (akin to the ear’s pinna) to align with a satellite for the best signal.

With an electronic scanning concept, we could imagine the ear being able to listen with optimum quality, in a chosen direction, without having to move the head, and above all to be able to listen to several conversations at the same time.

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