← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 6)
We are proposing the development of a new generation of transmitters for the GSSR based on solid-state technology. The ultimate goal is to develop a 1 MW solid-state transmitter operating at X-band that can provide reliable high output power with graceful degradation and ease of replacement to minimize down time. We envision the MWSSR to house 1024 SPCA amplifier modules. There will be 64 sections, containing 16 SPCAs modules each. A 16-way power combiner waveguide will combine the output of 16 SPCA modules thus producing 16 kW of power. The MWSSR will have 64 16-way power combiners that will be further combined to produce the desired 1 MW of power.
The development of a Spatial Power Combining Amplifier will replace the unreliable klystron tubes currently used in the DSN. The use of Solid State Amplifiers will provide higher power and wider bandwidth and longer lifetime which will provide for better performance for the radar system with improved signal to noise ratio and allow for increased resolution.
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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.