Celestia Callisto has entered into a contract with OHB Digital Connect to support its project to upgrade the Sardinia Deep Space Antenna (SDSA). The Sardinia Deep Space Antenna (SDSA) shares part of the infrastructure of the Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT) but also has its own equipment and a dedicated control center to ensure communication with spacecraft for Near-Earth and Deep-Space missions.
As part of the ambitious project, OHB will install Celestia Callisto's Cryocooled feeds cryogenic LNAs in X and K bands for the Deep Space chains. These Cryocooled units are each equipped with dual Sumitomo Heavy Industries cold heads, providing continual service and no maintenance downtime.
The cryogenic units are already installed in all three of ESA’s Deep Space antennas, doubling the antenna performance, thanks to the improved reception quality.
Celestia Callisto will also provide its Cryogenic Compact LNA units for the Near-Earth chains in the X and K bands. These plug-and-play cryogenic LNAs offer up to 10 years of maintenance-free operation. These Compacts offer a significant improvement in noise temperature while reducing downtime and operational effort.
“As specialists in creating advanced front-end solutions for ground station manufacturers and operators that enhance the performance of radio antennas, we are well placed to deliver the technology required for projects like this where durability, uninterrupted service, and robust operation are prerequisites,” says Celestia Callisto's Sales Manager, Jennifer Bernard.
“Our team is working alongside those from OHB Digital Connect, Telespazio, and the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to provide the solutions they need, based on our specialist knowledge of advanced RF technologies and commitment to excellent customer support,” she says.
