Microwave technologies for space: Needs & challenges from commercial and system engineering perspectives

Microwave component manufacturers of space-qualified hardware require direction on where the most urgent needs and challenges exist in the commercial satellite marketplace. This paper synthesizes the needs from a commercial business viewpoint and a system engineering viewpoint and finds that the two are in harmony. The primary focus for space-based microwave technology innovation should be for the geostationary fixed service and broadcast service satellite and spot beam satellite payloads. Specific examples of desired innovations and improvements in active and passive microwave components are provided.