Filtronic secures UK Space Agency funding for digital satellite ground networks
Space North East England member Filtronic has secured UK Space Agency funding to develop technology designed to support the shift towards more digital and software-defined satellite ground networks.
The funding has been awarded through the UK Space Agency’s Ground Station Innovation Programme, supported by the European Space Agency’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems programme.
Simplifying satellite ground infrastructure
Satellite ground stations provide the link between spacecraft and networks on Earth. Existing systems often rely on several frequency converters and modems, alongside extensive analogue cabling connecting antennas with processing equipment.
Filtronic’s project will develop radio frequency over internet protocol, or RF-over-IP, technology. This moves the digital interface closer to the antenna, allowing satellite signals to be carried over standard Ethernet networks.
The signals can then be processed centrally within data centres or cloud infrastructure. This could make ground stations simpler to operate, easier to scale and better suited to increasingly automated and software-defined satellite networks.
Developing a high-speed demonstrator
The programme will produce a demonstrator capable of transmitting and receiving up to 100Gb/s of optical data while supporting multiple channels simultaneously.
Designed for emerging wideband X, Ka and V-band satellite applications, the technology is intended to integrate with Filtronic’s future range of high-frequency communications products.
Tudor Williams, Chief Technology Officer, Filtronic, said, “RF over IP is a key enabling technology for future satellite ground networks. This programme strengthens our technology roadmap while further building our long-standing relationship with the UK Space Agency and ESA, reflecting their continued confidence in Filtronic’s ability to develop innovative communications technologies.
As operators move towards increasingly software-defined and virtualised architectures, RF over IP will play a crucial role in simplifying and scaling next-generation ground infrastructure.”
UKSA Head of Satellite Communications, Henny Sands said: “The UK is at the cutting edge of satellite communications, and projects such as Filtronic’s will help keep British industry ahead of the curve in next-generation space technology. By supporting the development of advanced digital ground segment capabilities through ESA’s ARTES programme, we are helping UK companies create new commercial opportunities, strengthen national capability, and drive economic growth.”
Satellite communications expertise in North East England
Based at NETPark in County Durham, Filtronic designs and manufactures RF, microwave and millimetre-wave components and systems for the space, aerospace, defence and telecommunications sectors.
The award demonstrates the satellite communications expertise being developed in North East England and the region’s contribution to future ground infrastructure.
Space North East England brings together companies, universities and support organisations working across satellite communications, advanced electronics, Earth observation, space surveillance, instrumentation, materials and data-led services.
