High Temperature Superconductivity Space Experiment - Communications and satellite payload applications

Abstract

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRJL) began the High Temperature Superconductivity Space Experiment (HTSSE) program in 1988. High temperature superconductor (HTS) components can increase channel capacity or reduce the mass of communications satellite and other payloads. Numerous potentially useful satellite payload components as well as two space demonstration payload experiments (HTSSE-I and HTSSE-II) have been developed. Implications to payload mass and function from the use of HTS components are illustrated by a hypothetical payload. A 29 % payload mass reduction could result. HTSSE program goals are a) development of HTS components potentially useful in satellite communications, radar, and other payloads, and b) on-orbit demonstration of HTS components in HTSSE payloads. First-generation passive-microwave HTS devices and a first demonstration payload (HTSSE-I) incorporating these devices were successfully completed and tested in 1993. HTSSE-I involved design, fabrication, qualification, integration, and ground-testing. On-orbit test data from HTSSE-I was not obtained due to a failure to reach orbit. Second-generation HTS components and a second space demonstration payload (HTSSE-II) were begun in 1992. HTSSE-II components and the space payload have been designed, fabricated, qualified, integrated, and ground-tested. HTSSE-II is scheduled for launch in 1996 aboard the Air Force Space Test Program P91-1 ARGOS satellite.