HUBER+SUHNER, a Swiss technology leader, has confirmed that its UK division has secured a multi-year sub-contract with antenna manufacturer Sirio Antenne. The agreement centers on supplying essential electronic components for the SKA Observatory's (SKAO) low-frequency radio telescope, SKA-Low, which is under construction in Western Australia.
The SKA Observatory, an intergovernmental collaboration headquartered in the UK, is dedicated to building state-of-the-art radio telescopes. These facilities aim to transform humanity’s understanding of the universe by exploring phenomena like the early structure of the cosmos, the birth of stars, and the formation of the first galaxies.
Critical Role in SKA-Low Telescope Infrastructure
HUBER+SUHNER will supply over 150,000 assemblies comprising high-quality SPUMA 195 cables, XQMA connectors, and specially designed SMB connectors. These components will establish reliable radio frequency (RF) links among over 78,000 antennas deployed across Wajarri Yamaji country in the Murchison region of Western Australia.
These RF connections are integral to the telescope's ability to process and transmit weak cosmic signals to server stations for advanced data analysis. The SKA-Low telescope will be instrumental in mapping the universe’s earliest epochs, helping scientists study the first billion years of cosmic history.
Built for Performance in Harsh Environments
HUBER+SUHNER’s components are renowned for their durability and precision, making them ideal for demanding projects like SKA-Low. These rugged, cost-effective solutions will ensure high-fidelity signal transmissions across the telescope’s complex processing chain, enabling breakthroughs in space exploration.
Reto Bolt, Chief Operating Officer at HUBER+SUHNER, highlighted the significance of the project:
“This partnership reflects our expertise in advanced connectivity solutions for the global space industry. Contributing to the SKAO’s mission of unlocking the mysteries of the universe is a milestone we are immensely proud of.”
Antonio Sganzerla, Project Manager at Sirio Antenne, echoed this sentiment: “We chose HUBER+SUHNER for their unparalleled quality and precision in coaxial cable and RF connector manufacturing. Their expertise and reliability are invaluable in meeting the SKAO’s ambitious schedule.”
The SKAO is an international organization uniting scientists and engineers from around the world to push the boundaries of astrophysics. Its two flagship telescopes, SKA-Mid in South Africa and SKA-Low in Australia, are set to revolutionize the field by observing the universe with unprecedented precision.
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