A Ka-band single string photonic payload flight demonstrator for broadband high throughput satellite systems and an in orbit demonstrator of optical RF distribution on-board satellites

Abstract

This paper provides a summary of two on orbit demonstrators (IOD) for photonics payload technology hosted in two satellites respectively. A Ka-band Flight Demonstration Photonic Payload aimed for payload solutions for High Throughput Satellites (HTS) Systems was hosted in a GEO Communication satellite. An Optical RF Distribution flight demonstration was hosted in a second GEO satellite. This paper provides the design, parameter allocations and testing of these payloads. It describes the system and payload design solution overviews, identifies critical payload hardware, and summarizes key unit and payload performances for the Ka Band Flight demonstration payload and for the Optical distribution of RF signals. Both in-flight demonstrations are now flying as hosted payloads in two different GEO communications satellites recently launched.