- MDA Space (TSX:MDA) has successfully demonstrated the digital formation and electronic steering of multiple Ka-band beams using direct sampling with its Aurora direct radiating array (DRA) — a first in the industry
- This technological milestone marks a big step forward in the development of next-generation satellite constellations, particularly for broadband and 5G connectivity
- The Aurora Ka-band DRA is designed to form multiple simultaneous beams and steer them electronically enables operators to dynamically allocate bandwidth and direct capacity precisely where and when it’s needed
- MDA Space stock (TSX:MDA) opened trading at C$39.48
A top mission partner to the global space industry, has announced a groundbreaking achievement in satellite communications technology.
MDA Space (TSX:MDA) has successfully demonstrated the digital formation and electronic steering of multiple Ka-band beams using direct sampling with its Aurora direct radiating array (DRA) — a first in the industry.
This content has been prepared as part of a partnership with MDA Space Ltd. and is intended for informational purposes only.
This technological milestone marks a big step forward in the development of next-generation satellite constellations, particularly for broadband and 5G connectivity. Unlike traditional systems that rely on intermediate frequency conversion, MDA Space’s direct sampling approach enhances efficiency, reduces satellite mass and power consumption, and lowers overall mission costs.
The Aurora Ka-band DRA is designed to deliver high-performance, software-defined capabilities. Its ability to form multiple simultaneous beams and steer them electronically enables operators to dynamically allocate bandwidth and direct capacity precisely where and when it’s needed. This flexibility is crucial for meeting the growing global demand for high-speed, low-latency data services.
“With MDA Aurora, we’re providing a highly flexible and adaptable solution that can be tailored to meet each customer’s specific requirements,” Luigi Pozzebon, Vice-President of Satellite Systems at MDA Space said in a news release. “The successful demonstration of our Ka-band DRA technology is a critical step towards delivering those advanced capabilities that will help customers compete in the rapidly evolving satellite communications market.”
To showcase the technology, MDA Space has opened a demonstration lab at its Montréal manufacturing facility. The lab features a working DRA prototype and uses thermal imaging to visualize beam formation and steering in real time. The setup will soon include an onboard processor prototype, completing the full communication chain from gateway ground station to user terminal.
This demonstration could not only validate the core capabilities of the Aurora platform but also provides customers with a tangible preview of its end-to-end performance in real-world scenarios.
This news comes a week after MDA completed its acquisition of SatixFy Communications Ltd., a next-generation satellite communication solutions provider based on in-house-designed chipsets. SatixFy’s operations and full technology portfolio will be integrated into the Satellite Systems business area of MDA Space.
MDA Space Ltd. is a partner to the global space industry specializing in robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence. The company brings over 55 years of experience across more than 450 missions, including the development of the Canadarm robotic arm system.
MDA Space stock (TSX:MDA) opened trading 1.40 per cent higher at C$39.48 and has risen 214.50 per cent since this time last year.
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