C-Band SATCOM Range Communications System for ELVs using ESAs and High Dynamics Modem, Phase I

Improving safety while increasing the pace of space launches requires improved communications capability. An increasing volume of real-time data from numerous sensors and systems can be transmitted to the ground if connecting links can be improved. One way to accomplish this is to use existing commercial satellites to supplement overburdened NASA communications systems. Used as an adjunct service, additional commercial capacity would act to increase launch safety, allowing an increased amount of data to be transponded to ground systems without detracting from the reliability of existing communication systems. Existing NASA links could continue to be used for mission critical requirements. Limitations of two technologies prevent the transponding large amounts of data via commercial satellites. The first is a conformal antenna technology that can provide high gain by steering its beam toward the GEO satellite. The second is high-speed modem technology that can track a remote modem despite the wide dynamics experienced during launch and maneuvers. Paratek proposes to design a dual-beam, passive, electronically steered phased array (utilizing our proprietary Parascan?, phase shifters) and a highly dynamic modem to provide the communications link for spaced-based range applications. The system will leverage commercial Intelsat C-Band transponder network (4 GHz & 6 GHz).

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.