Unlocking the Next Generation of Nano-Satellite Missions with 320 Mbps Ka-Band Downlink: On-Orbit Results

Relatively low downlink data rates have historically limited the scientific and commercial return from CubeSats and SmallSats. As the capability of payloads for these satellites continues to increase, high-speed downlink capability is required to realize the increasing potential from these systems. In this paper we present the on-orbit results of our high-speed Ka-band transmitter operating aboard the twin Corvus-BC3 and Corvus-BC4 6U CubeSats. The 1-U form factor Ka-band system enables the unprecedented data return from a multi-spectral imager in this class of spacecraft. We highlight the spacecraft design and operational challenges that have been overcome on these missions that will enable high-speed downlink on any CubeSat or SmallSat. While the pointing requirements for this Ka-band downlink are readily achievable by today’s small satellites, we discuss some of the hidden complexities on both the attitude determination and control system (ADCS) as well as on the ground segment. Currently in-place ground infrastructure, including a 2.8 m dish at a downlink station in Svalbard, Norway, has enabled rapid commissioning and on-demand downlink several times a day for these sun-synchronous spacecraft. This paper includes flight data from early commission to routine operation at high-data rates. We believe the lessons learned on these missions will be valuable for other CubeSat developers that plan on moving away from UHF, S-band, and X-band and into the realm of millimeter microwave frequencies (such as 27 GHz)