News: Microelectronics
29 October 2024
Altum RF wins two-year ESA contract to supply Ka-band MMIC power amplifiers
Altum RF of Eindhoven, The Netherlands (which designs RF, microwave and millimeter-wave semiconductors) has announced a two-year contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) under the ARTES (Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems) Core Competitiveness (CC) Programme, for the design and development of high-efficiency monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) power amplifiers, which will be tailored for phased-array Ka-band satellite communication systems in space applications. The Netherlands Space Office (NSO) was instrumental in facilitating the contract.
Commencing in October, the project aims to advance the development of high-efficiency MMIC power amplifiers to enhance the performance of Ka-band phased-array satellite communication systems. With the rapid deployment of low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite constellations, Ka-band phased-array systems will play a critical role in future satellite communications. To meet the increasing demand for improved performance in these systems, the project will implement an innovative approach to power amplifier design, delivering significant improvements in both power efficiency and RF performance.
The development project with ESA aligns with Altum RF’s strategic vision and product roadmap, says CEO Greg Baker.” Over the next two years, this contract will help direct our product development and accelerate our growth in the SATCOM market. The collaboration with ESA during our initial contract was very successful and we look forward to building on that relationship with a continued focus on innovative satellite-based solutions,” he adds.
“ESA has been an exceptional partner in helping Altum RF establish itself within the European and global market,” comments Niels Kramer, managing director Europe & VP marketing. “This new contract enables us to further expand our design and development capabilities at our Eindhoven office, positioning us to capitalize on this growing business opportunity,” he adds.
“By supporting the development of high-efficiency amplifiers, ARTES CC aims at bringing innovation in satellite communications and strengthening industrial competitiveness,” notes Domenico Mignolo, ESA’s head of Technology and Products Division.
Altum RF designs high-performance RF to millimeter-wave semiconductor solutions for next-generation markets and applications. Collaborating closely with customers and partners, we provide comprehensive technical support and customer service. Our global partnerships enable us to manage the entire product development cycle, from design to packaging, testing, and qualification, significantly reducing time to market.
Altum RF showcasing products and expertise at EuMW
