Thales has delivered all the Dual-TWTs necessary for the optimal performance of the Optus-11 satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space, and operating in the Ku-band. This delivery will significantly improve the communication and data management capabilities of Optus-11, while enhancing its performance and operational reliability. Reconfigurable even in orbit, this flexible satellite represents a major advancement in the field of geostationary telecommunications satellites.
To enhance satellite performance and mission efficiency, travelling wave tubes (TWTs), which amplify radiofrequency signals in satellite systems, can be doubled and integrated into a more compact and lightweight format (Dual-TWT). This technology, with performances that are unique in the world, contributes to the new flexibility requirements of satellites.
As the foundation of a new generation of highly flexible and innovative telecommunications satellites that can quickly adapt to the changing dynamics of the market and user needs, the OneSat program by Airbus Defence and Space has been developed through synergies among key national and international space industry players. While Airbus is responsible for the main design, TESAT is integrating Thales’s TWTs into Microwave Power Modules (MPM). Both partners bring their expertise in communication systems, built on Thales’s experience with over 23,200 TWTs in orbit.
Thales’s next-generation Dual-TWTs offer unparalleled global performance, combining reduced weight and size with advanced technology. These Dual-TWTs are engineered to provide exceptional reliability and performance in constrained space environments. Easily integrated into the satellite antenna system, they are a crucial element for the success of the Optus program. Available in two versions for both the Ku and Ka band satellite frequency ranges, the Dual-TWTs fully meet the requirements of active antenna amplification systems designed for flexible and software-defined satellites.
Three of Thales's facilities are collaborating to manufacture the Dual-TWTs: Ulm in Germany, Thonon-les-Bains and Vélizy in France. With key components such as Thales’ Ku-band Dual-TWTs, the Optus-11 satellite is positioned as a vital element for next-generation spacecraft, significantly enhancing their communication and satellite service capabilities.
"We are honored to make a significant contribution to the operation of the Optus-11 satellite by providing Airbus Defence and Space with our next-generation Dual Travelling Wave Tubes. Our successful delivery of this system for the first flight model showcases Thales's ability to quickly provide cutting-edge technological solutions that will shape the future of space communications," said Charles-Antoine Goffin, Vice President, Microwave and Imaging Systems, Thales.
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