Communications Components for Small Spacecraft

Each Space Technology 5 smallsat x-band transponder will be approximately the size of an inkjet printer cartridge (2" x 2" x 3") and weigh less than 300 grams (just over 10 ounces). This is nine times smaller and twelve times lighter than previous communications systems. And, each transponder requires only one-fourth the voltage and half as much power as its predecessors.

These transponders will communicate directly with ground stations on Earth with 750 kilobit-per-second capability, a key enabler of future miniature satellite missions. This revolutionary space communication system was developed by leveraging commercial technology from cell phones, very small aperture terminals, and direct broadcast satellite television. This transponder is a step towards the next generation of miniature satellite applications and is critical to the success of future smallsat or nanosat missions.

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