#Canada #Montreal #Satellite Technology #MDA Space #Ka-band DRA

MDA Space Breakthrough in Satellite Technology

MDA Space, listed on the TSX under the symbol MDA, has made a significant advancement in satellite communication technology, marking an industry first. Recently, the company successfully demonstrated their capability to digitally form and precisely steer multiple beams using a cutting-edge Ka-band direct radiating array (DRA). This remarkable achievement offers promising implications for the future of satellite communications, especially in supporting broadband connectivity and 5G networks, which are increasingly crucial in today’s data-driven world.

The Innovation Behind MDA AURORA™

MDA AURORATM employs state-of-the-art technology, enabling the formation of digitally created beams that can be simultaneously directed without the constraints associated with conventional satellite technology. Typically, beam forming has depended on intermediate frequency conversion techniques, but MDA's novel approach uses direct sampling. This breakthrough reduces the overall costs associated with satellite deployment – including mass and power consumption – allowing for more efficient and resource-effective operations down the line.

Another key feature of the MDA AURORATM is its scalability. The system can accommodate hundreds of array elements, allowing for the generation of multiple high-capacity spot beams that can be electronically steered. This flexibility and increased performance level are particularly beneficial for satellite operators who aim to meet the mounting demand for data-intensive services, providing users with high-speed, low-latency connectivity that is essential in modern telecommunications.

Luigi Pozzebon, Vice-President of Satellite Systems at MDA Space, commented on this major technical leap, stating: "With MDA AURORATM, we offer a highly flexible solution that can be custom-tailored to each customer’s unique needs. The successful demonstration of our Ka-band DRA technology represents a crucial step towards delivering these advanced capabilities. It empowers our clients to remain competitive in the fast-evolving satellite communications landscape."

Live Demonstrations and Future Applications

MDA has set up a specially designed demonstration lab at its manufacturing facility located in Montréal, where customers can observe the MDA AURORATM technology in action. The lab showcases the beam forming and steering capabilities through thermal imaging, with the heat generated by the beams visually documented on the test chamber surface. This innovative demonstration facility features a DRA prototype that will ultimately connect to an onboard processor (OBP) prototype. It aims to illustrate the complete communication chain from a ground gateway station to a user terminal, offering a comprehensive insight into the technology’s end-to-end capabilities.

The implications of this technological advancement extend beyond satellite operators to various sectors, including telecommunications, where the demand for efficient, high-capacity data transmission is soaring. As global consumers increasingly rely on digital services, MDA Space’s innovations pave the way for enhanced communication infrastructure capable of meeting future challenges.

About MDA Space

MDA Space is a leader in the global space industry, boasting over 55 years of experience and a storied history filled with achievements. As a pioneer in satellite systems, robotics, and geointelligence, MDA has participated in more than 450 missions, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the realm of space exploration and infrastructure. With over 3,400 experts across Canada, the US, and the UK, MDA harnesses a unique blend of engineering excellence and innovative vision to bring customers’ ambitious projects to fruition. For more information about MDA Space and its array of services, visit their website at mda.space.

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