Current European RF GaN power processes are optimised for up to K band, however the efficiency is less than is required to meet future planned missions. In order to meet the need for operation up to W band with up to 20% improvement in efficiency, together with improvements in linearity, a step change in device architecture is required.

Energy generation in Space poses a severe challenge, the answer to which may be the use of novel metamaterials for thermoelectric generators. Metamaterials can address this question by employing conventional materials and well-established fabrication technologies while leaving room for other approaches to increase the efficiency of thermoelectric generation. In the current study, we investigated possible configurations of metamaterials that could increase the efficiency of thermoelectric generators in Space.

MRAM (Magnetic Random Access Memory) technology is very interesting for space use since:

Robots are the most important assistants for astronauts during extra-terrestrial missions. All successful exploration missions in the past have proven the importance and the durability that robots have in extreme environments. For our next step on the lunar surface, it’s essential to redesign a more complete and multifunctional robotic system that can provide support for astronauts during the construction, exploration, research and everyday life tasks. This research study aims to create a new framework for reconfigurable robotics, going beyond the “traditional” intransigent robot.

The interest of having in the near future an available Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) service supporting future missions to and at the Moon is currently supported by both institutional and commercial initiatives. On the commercial side, multiple companies are developing business solutions targeting the Moon and several major European companies are proposing to team up to build a communications network on the Moon compatible to terrestrial standards. In parallel, NASA has recently announced its plans to a ?Return to the moon?

FMCW radar technology in the automotive industry radar market covers 24 GHz and 77 GHz bands with modulated bandwidths of up to 4 GHz, allowing simultaneously ultra-precise determination of target range and its relative velocity. Fine angular resolution with 0.1 deg steps at distance of 300 m and beam-steering capability has been recently demonstrated. FMCW systems have also proved their efficiency for detection of fast-moving objects with small cross-section such as drones.