Celestia Callisto to Provide Cryogenic LNAs for Sardinia Deep Space Antenna Upgrade

Key Takeaways

Celestia Callisto has partnered with OHB Digital Connect to enhance the Sardinia Deep Space antenna’s capabilities.
The project will involve the installation of advanced cryogenic LNAs, improving reception quality and reducing maintenance downtime.
Collaboration with OHB, Telespazio, and the Italian Space Agency ensures the delivery of robust and durable communication solutions for space missions.

Project Overview

Celestia Callisto has entered into a partnership with OHB Digital Connect to modernize the Sardinia Deep Space antenna, a facility integral to communication with spacecraft for both near-Earth and deep space missions. This antenna is part of the Sardinia Radio Telescope’s broader infrastructure but operates with dedicated equipment and a specialized control center.

As part of the upgrade, OHB will install Celestia Callisto’s Cryocooled Feeds, which consist of cryogenic low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) operating in the X- and K-Bands specifically for the Deep Space communication chains. Each cryogenic unit will be equipped with dual cold heads from Sumitomo Heavy Industries, ensuring continuous operation without the need for maintenance downtime. The implementation of these cryogenic units has already been proven to enhance the performance of all three of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Deep Space antennas by significantly improving reception quality.

In addition to the Deep Space chains, Celestia Callisto will provide their Cryogenic Compact LNA units, also in X- and K-Bands, for the near-Earth communication routes. These units are designed for easy installation and offer up to ten years of maintenance-free operation. The compact LNAs will notably decrease noise temperature, thereby enhancing overall system efficiency while minimizing operational downtime and maintenance efforts.

Jennifer Bernard, Sales Manager at Celestia Callisto, emphasizes the company’s capability in delivering advanced solutions tailored for ground station manufacturers and operators. She states, “As specialists in creating advanced front-end solutions for ground station manufacturers and operators that enhance the performance of radio antennas, we are well placed to deliver the technology required for projects like this where durability, uninterrupted service and robust operation are prerequisites.”

The ongoing collaboration includes teams from OHB Digital Connect, Telespazio, and the Italian Space Agency, illustrating a strong commitment to facilitating optimal communication technologies for space missions. This alliance is supported by Celestia Callisto’s expert knowledge of advanced RF technologies and a dedication to providing excellent customer support.

This project stands as a significant step towards advancing space communication infrastructure, aligning with continuing ambitions in space exploration and satellite operations by enhancing the capabilities of ground stations like the Sardinia Deep Space antenna.

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