Powerful and Compact SSPA Modules for Active Remote Sensing

The goal is a compact and reliable amplifier module with one-watt output power and high power added efficiency (PAE) within the frequency band of interest. As described in the solicitation, NASA applications include SmallSat based cloud, water, and precipitation missions, similar to the highly successful RainCube (which operated at 37.5 GHz). Compact size and power efficiency are required for the SmallSat form factor as well as to reduce costs for the envisioned swarm mission technology. The Phase I research included the completion of the design study for the new amplifier chip and the demonstration of the power combining technology that is required to achieve the one-watt goal. The deliverables include two primary items that demonstrate the feasibility of the technology. These are the Teledyne design report showing the expected performance of the new amplifier MMIC and the prototype amplifier module that demonstrates the four-way power combining. Although significant challenges remain, VDI is confident that the primary solicitation goals can be achieved through Phase II development