New antenna test range set to draw international audience to Harwell
Marketing
The Satellite Applications Catapult is to establish an antenna test range, further extending the world-class facilities provided at the UK Space Gateway in Harwell, Oxfordshire.
The 400 metre antenna test range is set to be live by the end of 2015, and will be used primarily for the development, characterisation and type approval of satellite communication antennas for use on satellite telecommunications networks.
The range will include two antenna towers and cover all satellite communication bands from C to Ka, helping British and international satcom terminal manufacturers develop and test new products.
Satellite Applications Catapult CEO, Stuart Martin, said: “We are confident that this investment in a significant new facility will generate many new opportunities for the Catapult and the wider Space community.
“Having this antenna testing range in the UK will attract overseas companies to use the facility, and draw major satellite manufacturers to Harwell where they can also benefit from the array of other services available. Furthermore, they will add to the strength and depth of space business already growing up around Harwell, bringing new capability and creating new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.”
To support this new facility, the Catapult will employ a team of test technicians to provide specialist support to companies using the range.
