Small, Low Mass, Self-Biased Circulators for Aerospace Phased Array Radar Systems

Metamagnetics proposes a NASA CCRPP program focused on performing the environmental testing, failure analysis and device optimization needed for commercializing its novel, self-biased circulator technology that enables small, highly integrated transmit/receive modules for phased array radar systems. We developed the self-biased circulators with NASA JPL and the Navy first through the SBIR program and later through the NASA ACT program working with NASA Goddard and JPL. Recently, we have worked with two potential customers, Northrop Grumman and Qorvo through the DARPA M3IC program (Magnetic Miniaturized and Monolithically Integrated Circuits) toward the integration of self-biased circulators and MMICs (Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit). According to previous discussions with Dr. Greg Sadowy at NASA JPL, the CCRPP could prepare the technology for infusion into a NASA ESTO system such as the Cloud and Precipitation Processes Mission (CaPPM) concept. A reliable, highly integrated circulator could improve radar performance by reducing size, mass and power (SWaP) and improving image resolution. Small size and low mass make the self-biased circulators well suited to aerospace applications, particularly when high performance is important, and space is limited. The proposed CCRPP program will result in technology advancement and commercialization through our partnership with Investor Northrop Grumman Aerospace due to its interests in aerospace products such as satellite communications. Other commercial markets include autonomous vehicle controls, high speed WiFi and 5G networks. During the proposed NASA CCRPP, our objectives are to improve the device design so that the performance and reliability of the circulators meets COTS (commercial-off-the-shelf) specifications for aerospace systems.

NASA markets include missions where multiband radar could enable the study of the hydrological cycle with a single small, low mass phased array radar system. A sensing system using the small, self-biased circulators could substantially improve the scan angle of the phased array, giving the devices an additional selling point when components are selected for infusion into mission platforms. NASA satellite programs such as CaPPM 3CPR is the type of program that is targeted.

Ferrite circulators and isolators are ubiquitous in rf, microwave, and millimeter-wave systems with major markets in both the commercial and DOD sectors. Markets include: Small UAVs and Drones “Space Companies” and Micro Satellites Vehicle Proximity Detection, Warning, and Avoidance (Autonomous Cars) 5G 5th Generation mobile technologies SatCom AESA Arrays

This is a mature technology (TRL 7) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.