TRW is moving ahead with the design and development of a deployable AstroMesh reflector for Mobile Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) of Japan’s MBSAT geostationary satellite under a contract from Space Systems/Loral, a subsidiary of Loral Space & Communications.
MBSAT will provide digital multimedia information services such as CD-quality audio, MPEG-4 video and data to mobile users throughout Japan and Korea equipped with receivers in cars, ships, trains, handheld terminals, cellular phones and home portables.
TRW’s 12-meter, S-band AstroMesh reflector will be integrated onto Loral’s 1300 spacecraft bus to transmit the MBC programming. MBC’s service is scheduled to become operational in early 2004.
“Space-based digital audio and video services are fast becoming a reality throughout the world,” said Chris Yamada, president, TRW Astro Aerospace. “We’re pleased to be a part of this forward-looking project. We believe our reflector will help to provide high quality services to MBSAT’s customers.”
Reflectors are a key component of an antenna, reflecting radio frequency energy and focusing it into a pattern on the ground. TRW’s AstroMesh reflectors provide accurate surfaces that enhance ground performance in a lightweight package.
An AstroMesh reflector aboard the Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications Company spacecraft has been operational for nearly twelve months; TRW is currently building AstroMesh reflectors for the INMARSAT-4 broadband system.
TRW Astro Aerospace designs and manufactures space deployable structures, including truss masts, telescopic booms, storable tubular extendible members, solar arrays and deep truss structures.
