Factors Affecting Interconnects in Space

Addressing these challenges is essential for the many private space companies and government-owned space agencies that are pioneering the LEO-satellite frontier. New opportunities are inspiring bold innovations in satellite design, aerospace engineering, and electronic packaging.To support these initiatives, TE Connectivity extends its track record of developing interconnects for space that began with Surveyor lunar landers in the 1960’s to advancing space-qualified SpaceVPX, VITA, NASA, ESA,and MIL-SPEC compliant products today. Commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components can also be applied under conservative design rules where LEO missions with limited life cycles can benefit from COTS and COTS+ solutions.The following paper examines critical factors that influence the cost and performance of interconnects in space. The goal is to help designers meet mission objectives for launch vehicles, LEO satellites, and constellations employed in today’s new space economy.