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Photo Credit: Airbus

Airbus (Toulouse, France) reported on Dec. 10 that it has successfully qualified what is says is Europe’s first 5-meter deployable antenna reflector. The 70-kilogram deployable reflector will help enable higher resolution from a radar instrument for Earth observation. Incorporating panels made with high-modulus carbon fiber into the design, Airbus says the semi-rigid reflector technology offers significant advantages compared to classic mesh reflectors.

Due to its large diameter, the reflector would be unable to fit into any rocket fairing, says Airbus. However, this particular antenna reflector is capable of being compactly stowed, and then unfolds like a flower — from 1.6 to 5 meters — after the fairing is released. The unfurlable, parabolic reflector concept enables Airbus to enter the market for cost-effective and small radar missions or constellations.

After successful completion of the intensive deployment and environmental tests, the qualification model has now been delivered to the customer for further tests on the satellite system level. The flight unit will be delivered in 2021 and is currently scheduled for launch for the export customer in 2022.