Ever wondered what it takes to track Earth’s most subtle changes, from shifting tectonic plates to melting ice caps, with unprecedented precision?
The answer lies in cutting-edge technology and the collaborative spirit of international space missions. We’re incredibly proud to announce that Exxelia components are on board the NISAR satellite, a groundbreaking joint mission between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
This first-of-its-kind satellite is a game-changer for Earth science. Using a sophisticated dual-frequency L- and S-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), NISAR will provide a unified, comprehensive view of our planet’s surfaces. It’s designed to measure changes in ecosystems, ice mass, and land, providing critical data for understanding and responding to climate change and natural hazards like earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Essentially, NISAR will give us a global, high-resolution “motion picture” of our planet’s most dynamic processes.
Our Role in the Mission
At Exxelia, we specialize in designing and manufacturing high-reliability components for demanding applications, and there’s no environment more demanding than space. Our parts were chosen for their exceptional performance, stability, and durability—qualities that are non-negotiable for a mission of this magnitude.
Specifically, our SESI series magnetics play a crucial role within the satellite’s Data Acquisition & Digital Beam Former (DABF) units. These components are essential for the precise control and handling of electrical signals, ensuring that the radar data collected is accurate and reliable.
Technical Specifications: SESI series magnetics used in this application are designed to operate at frequencies up to 1 MHz and can handle significant power levels while maintaining high efficiency. Their robust construction ensures they can withstand the extreme temperature variations (−55∘C to +125∘C) and high-radiation environments of space without performance degradation.
Additionally, our CTC21E capacitors are vital for the satellite’s payloads and DC-DC converters. These components are responsible for power management, ensuring a stable and efficient energy supply to the sensitive instruments and systems. Their high-performance capabilities are critical for a mission that requires continuous operation and unwavering reliability.
Technical Specifications: CTC21E capacitors are known for their high capacitance values in a compact size, low ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance), and exceptional ripple current handling. They are rated for up to 500 V and operate reliably across a broad temperature range (−55∘C to +125∘C), making them ideal for the harsh conditions of space.
A Contribution to a Better Future
Being a part of the NISAR mission is more than just a technical achievement for us; it’s a contribution to a better future. The data collected by this satellite will be invaluable to scientists, policymakers, and communities worldwide. It will help us better predict natural disasters, manage agricultural resources, and monitor the effects of climate change.
We are honored to be a trusted partner in this international effort. The success of missions like NISAR underscores the importance of collaboration and the power of technology to address some of humanity’s biggest challenges. We look forward to seeing the incredible insights this satellite will provide and continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace and beyond.
Source: exxelia.com
