Modular Payload Demonstrator (MPD)

STATUS | Ongoing
STATUS DATE | 22/11/2011
ACTIVITY CODE |

Objectives

The objective of the project is to develop a means of mounting a number of matrix power amplifiers (MPAs) into a common mechanical and thermal assembly for mounting onto a payload with the overall aim of reducing RF losses and payload AIT cost.

Challenges

The key issues to be addressed by this project were:


  • Development of a payload mounting structure.

  • Development of MPA mounting techniques.

  • Mechanical testing of the overall structure.

  • Thermal testing of the overall structure.

  • RF testing to measure losses and compare with heritage assembly techniques.

Plan

The project kicked-off as a CCN in November 2004.
A BDR was held in May 2005, and CDR in February 2006; the project was closed in summer 2006.

Current Status

The project kicked-off on 17 November 2004, passed BDR, and was stopped at CDR when the modelling predicted that a second iteration of the mounting structure would be required.