Feature

Retrofit digital DC drives for space comms applications

Why did one of the world’s premier space communication gateways, Goonhilly Earth Station, choose to upgrade its deep-space satellite dish with Sprint Electric digital DC drives, rather than opting for AC alternatives?

30/06/2022 11:56:04

The overall project objective was to renovate a deep-space antenna to create a whole new control platform. This involved undertaking an extensive upgrade of the dish, including overhauling both the radio equipment and the motor drive system.

Originally built in 1972, Antenna GHY-3 consists of a reinforced-concrete tapered tower and a main 29.6m diameter counterbalanced reflector dish, which is held within a frame of interconnected and braced metal girders. There is an external lift that leads to the second floor, where there is an external walkway with a protective railing that leads to a brick-built support building. As a Grade 2 listed site, this landmark building is of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve its history and visual appeal.

Read the full article in DPA's July issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.