Details of research theme
【Title of Research Theme】
Research and development of semiconductors for space wireless systems using RF microelectronics technology
Our theme is research and development of ultra-small and highly reliable onboard wireless communication systems for ultra-small satellites and planetary surface rovers by using RF microelectronics technology.
Recently in Japan, Ultra-small piggyback satellite onboard to SLS rocket and lunar surface rovers are under developing.
Globally, there are many plans for lunar surface exploration, with the centrally of Artemis human space flight program, as well as plans for ultra-small explorers within the subpayload opportunities.
These ultra-small spacecraft and rover missions are based on the commercial off-the-shelf components. However, typical ultra-small telecommunication system was consist of discrete component such as COTS dual-use technologies, it is difficult to ensure the space reliability due to the screening levels.
The purpose of this research and development is to integrate a single chip of space wireless systems by using RF microelectronics technology, which is most common semiconductor technology, to achieve the ultimate in miniaturization, to ensure high reliability in long-term space environments, and to support low-resource missions.
The final results of the research will be used to future planetary exploration programs, mainly semiconductors for space communication systems with high demand such as transponders and proximity link, and will be applied to severe low-resource environments such as ultra-small spacecraft and planetary surface exploration rovers. Research and development will be carried out from the viewpoint of eventually utilizing them in flight models.