Satellites & Space
Optimising technology for space is our next Giant Leap
Advancing low SWaP (Size, Weight and Power) solutions, suitable for space’s harsh environment, means choosing an engineering partner with experience in developing technologies that work in difficult scenarios, including remote, high speed, low temperature environments. Space tech is hard to develop and maintain and we work collaboratively with our clients to deliver robust solutions that are ready to deploy safely and securely.
Engineering Excellence in S&S
In the vast and ever-evolving space industry, we have made significant contributions by developing low size weight and power (SWaP) solutions for sensing and communication systems. Our team of highly skilled engineers and consultants are experts in crucial areas such as Radio Frequency (RF), antenna, signal processing, software, and mechanical engineering.
We pride ourselves on pushing boundaries in Space and Satellites through our involvement in projects related to space communications, situational awareness, debris tracking, interference management, and more. By leveraging our knowledge and experience, we successfully launched cutting-edge platforms including an Internet of Things (IoT) framework, a Ku-band radar for terrestrial and aerospace applications, and mmWave radars based on automotive-grade chipsets.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
The industry faces numerous challenges that require specialised skills and experience. One of the most significant obstacles is the scarcity of skilled engineers capable of capitalising on the vast market opportunities available. As an engineering design services consultancy, we provide companies with on-demand access to efficient and skilled resources.
Another challenge in Space and Satellites revolves around spectrum management and interference between various communication technologies. Our expertise in this area enables us to perform comprehensive spectrum and interference management studies. We have worked on resolving conflicts between technologies such as wi-fi, ZigBee, cellular, satellite, and defence-based communication systems. Additionally, we recognise the importance of spectrum management in the context of space-only and satellite-to-satellite communication.
The importance of prototyping stages
Due to the uniqueness of space, you can’t easily send up a maintenance engineer when something goes wrong, there is an incredible attention to quality and reliability throughout the whole design, development, production and validation process. Plextek has also embedded these principles starting right at the earliest modelling and simulation stages including radar behavioural modelling and target object characterisation. These can be integrated into whole-system models for design proving before anything is built.
Plextek can support all prototyping stages; early breadboard, flatsat and engineering model, before embarking on the lengthy test and validation procedures needed before delivering final flight models.
Cyber Security in Satcoms
As the dependence on satellite communications grows, so does the risk of cyber threats. We understand the criticality of cyber security in the Satcoms industry and take it as a top priority. Robust and advanced security measures are essential to protect critical satellite communication infrastructure and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of data.
To address these security challenges, we adhere to the requirements of Cyber Essentials Plus, incorporating practices such as authentication, encryption, software integrity, and user data security into our development projects.
Partnerships and Future Plans
Our commitment to the industry extends beyond our core business operations. We actively participate in events and conferences, supporting organisations like the Satellite Application Catapult, UK Space Agency, and the European Space Agency (ESA). Our presence at industry events such as Space-Comm Expo and Satellite Show allows us to showcase our services and cutting-edge platforms. In May 2024 we were recognized for our ground breaking technologies in the space and satellites sector, with The Award for Innovation from Cambridge Independent.
Looking ahead, we have several exciting plans in the pipeline, indicating our continuous dedication to innovation and growth. By leveraging our expertise and collaborating with partners, we aim to tackle complex challenges in this area, drive industry advancements, and contribute to the future of space exploration and satellite communications.
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Our award winning mmWave radar technology improves the safety and efficiency of businesses operating across multiple industries, including Satellites & Space
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