Payload test · L / S / C / Ku / K / Ka

Payload In-Orbit Test System

Measuring racks and software for testing spacecraft payloads in orbit, built to customer requirements.

Overview

TESART develops payload in-orbit test (IOT) systems for testing spacecraft in orbit, covering a wide range of payload measurements during in-orbit testing. The system is a set of measuring instruments and other equipment integrated into racks and operated by a server running dedicated software. Depending on the task it may include measuring instruments, switch matrices, frequency converters, a GNSS (GLONASS) timing receiver, server and software, microwave cable kit and other equipment.

System composition

Measuring instruments

Switch matrices

Frequency converters

GNSS (GLONASS) timing receiver

Server and dedicated software

Microwave cable kit

Other task-specific equipment

RF and IF modules used in a TESART in-orbit test system rack

Key features

Automated verification of payload characteristics during in-orbit testing

Measurements during the outgassing phase across all Ka-, Ku- and S-band transponders

Storage of factory (ground) test data required for the checks

Downlink spectrum monitoring of payload channels

Power measurements of received signals using built-in instrument functions

Processing, visualization and storage of RF test results and spectrum monitoring data

Specifications

Parameter	Value
Transmit paths frequency range ¹	950–2000 MHz
Injection paths frequency range ¹	950–3000 MHz
Receive frequency range ¹	950–3000 MHz
RF ports	2 transmit · 3 injection · 4 receive
Power supply	Single-phase AC, three-wire with protective earth, 220 V ± 20 V
Power consumption	≤ 3.2 kW
Dimensions (L × W × H)	≤ 1087 × 597 × 2019 mm
Weight	≤ 300 kg

Measured parameters & accuracy

Measurement	Measurement uncertainty ²
G/T	1.5 dB
Saturated EIRP per transponder	1.4 dB
Saturation flux density (SFD) per transponder	1.4 dB
AM/AM characteristic	1.4 dB
Transponder gain-step range and limits	≤ 1 dB
Transponder in-band frequency response	≤ 1.4 dB
Beacon translation frequency and frequency error	≤ 150 Hz
Receive/transmit antenna patterns	≤ 1.4 dB
Selectivity	≤ 1 dB
Beacon EIRP	≤ 1.4 dB

¹ Other bands are covered with optional TESART frequency converters. ² Excluding uncertainty contributed by the payload itself. Specifications subject to change without notice.

Designed to customer requirements

Every IOT system is configured for the customer's spacecraft and ground infrastructure: the mix of measuring instruments, switch matrices, frequency converters and software is selected per project.

Discuss your IOT requirements