Optical Inter-Satellite Link Coarse Pointing Assembly
Overview
The Coarse Pointing Assembly (CPA) is a two axis gimballed mirror for independent steering of optical communication terminals. It mounts at the input (large aperture) of the terminal telescope and allows the terminal to operate without constraining the satelite attitude, which means multiple terminals on a single bus can operate simultaneously.
Designed for intersatellite links in high LEO orbits, it is sized for a 10cm telescope aperture and a 10 year lifetime. This CPA is intended to support the high performance, low cost needs of constellation markets and is therefore optimized to facilitate high rate production.
Key Honeywell Advantages:
Designed for intersatellite links in high LEO orbits, it is sized for a 10cm telescope aperture and a 10 year lifetime. This CPA is intended to support the high performance, low cost needs of constellation markets and is therefore optimized to facilitate high rate production.
Key Honeywell Advantages:
- Highly precise brushless DC motors and precision encoders for pointing accuracy
- A sensorless open loop version is under development for greater radiation tolerance
- Highly stiff and mass optimised mechanical design
- Hood enclosure for low stray light and improved thermal environment of mirror
- Cable wrap allows full azimuthal coverage
- Customizable elevation range (impacts mirror size)
