In a groundbreaking move that could redefine satellite communications, Thales has delivered an advanced set of Dual Travelling Wave Tubes (TWTs) designed specifically for the Optus-11 satellite, developed by Airbus Defence and Space. This state-of-the-art technology, which amplifies radiofrequency signals, allows for a more compact and lightweight satellite design, enhancing overall performance and mission efficiency.

The Dual-TWTs provided by Thales are not just any ordinary components; they are engineered to meet the unique global demands of modern satellite systems. Optimized for the Ku-band, these TWTs will significantly boost the Optus-11’s capabilities in communication and data management, leading to improved operational reliability and performance.

A Leap into the Future of Satellite Technology

What sets the Optus-11 apart is its reconfigurable design, allowing adjustments even while in orbit. This flexibility marks a crucial leap forward for geostationary telecommunications satellites, enabling them to adapt swiftly to changing market dynamics and user needs.

The OneSat program, a collaborative effort by Airbus Defence and Space, has been a driving force behind this innovation, uniting key national and international players in the space industry. While Airbus leads with main design responsibilities, the integration of Thales’s TWTs into Microwave Power Modules is executed by TESAT, marrying cutting-edge design with proven technology from Thales, which boasts over 23,200 TWTs already in orbit.

Unmatched Performance and Reliability

Thales's next-gen Dual-TWTs are designed for performance without compromise. These components deliver exceptional reliability in confined environments and are crucial for satellite antenna systems. They come in two versions tailored for both Ku and Ka-band frequencies, ensuring robust support for flexible and software-defined satellites.

The production of these Dual-TWTs is a testament to Thales’s industrial prowess, with collaboration across three facilities located in Ulm, Germany, as well as Thonon-les-Bains and Vélizy in France.

Pioneering the Future of Space Communications

With the integration of Thales's Ku-band Dual-TWTs, the Optus-11 satellite emerges as a pivotal player in the future of satellite communication, significantly enhancing capabilities for next-generation spacecraft.

"We take great pride in our role in advancing the capabilities of the Optus-11 satellite with our next-generation Dual Travelling Wave Tubes," stated Charles-Antoine Goffin, Vice President of Microwave and Imaging Systems at Thales. "This successful delivery for the first flight model is a clear example of our commitment to providing innovative solutions that pave the way for the future of space communications."