As deep-space exploration intensifies, the need for ground stations to handle larger and more complex data streams has soared. ESA's global ground station network, Estrack, has faced increasing strain on its three deep-space antennas. To address this challenge, ESA initiated a series of upgrades to its facilities, including the adoption of advanced cryogenic technology.

The recent upgrade to the Malargue antenna involved enhancing its antenna feed with cutting-edge cryogenic technology. This advancement has boosted the station's capacity to download science data by up to 80%, with a 60% increase for specific deep-space missions such as Juice and BepiColombo. This enhancement is expected to ease operational pressures and support future missions with improved capabilities.

The upgraded system employs cryocooling to reduce thermal noise, a major factor that interferes with signal reception and data transfer rates. By cooling the antenna feed-the link between the antenna and its electronic signal systems-to just 10 Kelvin (-263C), the noise level is minimized, significantly improving the signal-to-noise ratio.

"Increasing the signal-to-noise ratio is key when designing, upgrading and operating antennas," said Stephane Halte, ESA ground station project manager. "At a temperature of 10 Kelvin instead of room temperature, we can reduce the noise to a minimum and increase the antenna's capacity by between 60 and 80%."

The cryocooled feeds incorporate state-of-the-art ultra-low noise cryogenic amplifiers (LNAs), developed in collaboration with institutions such as ETH Zurich in Switzerland and Chalmers University in Sweden. These LNAs are now commercially available through spin-off companies like LNF and Diramics. The same technology is being utilized in the development of quantum computers, showcasing how ESA's advancements benefit broader scientific and industrial communities.

The development of the Ka-band cryocooled feed was funded through ESA's Technology Development Element program, with the first prototype manufactured and tested by Callisto Space in France. Operational units were also produced by Callisto, while the Canadian company Calian managed their integration into ESA's Deep Space stations.

Malargue is the second ESA ground station to receive the cryogenic upgrade, following the Cerebros antenna in 2023. This technology is now a standard feature for ESA's ground stations, including upcoming facilities like the New Norcia 3 antenna.

Related Links
ESA Ground Stations
Space Technology News - Applications and Research