Customised Miniature Timing Reference for Harsh Environment

Opportunity

One of the main challenges for space exploration, navigation and communication is to have a precise and reliable timing reference. An error of even one second can cause significant discrepancies in satellite signal transmission and navigation as satellites move at extremely high velocities. With the growing popularity of nanosatellites (1 to 10kg), the demand for reliable and precise miniaturised timing references increases exponentially. Deploying traditional atomic clocks onboard nanosatellites is not feasible due to space, weight and power constraints. This technology offers a space-hardened, small-size, low-power and highly precise timing reference module based on CSAC technology. The module design can be customised according to application requirements and has been thoroughly tested in laboratory conditions and demonstrated successfully in Low-Earth Orbit at an altitude of 400km onboard the SPATIUM-I CubeSat. This technology can also be applied to other harsh environments such as those in mining and deep-ocean explorations.

Technology

This timing reference module outputs precise and uninterrupted 10MHz clock signals and one pulse per second (1 PPS) clock signals to external systems, even in harsh environments. Additional information, such as accumulated frequency counter data and the module’s operation data, can be obtained through UART serial data communication. Designed to fit into typical CubeSat configurations, the module occupies around 0.25U of a 1U CubeSat. Its small form factor is ideal for deployment onboard small CubeSat. To prevent power disruption during satellite orbiting, especially during eclipses, a supercapacitor module was designed as a backup power supply for continuous operation.

Applications & Advantages

Main application areas include space navigation, satellite constellations, weather monitoring, deep-space application, as well as usage in harsh environments.

Advantages:

• Delivers precise and uninterrupted timing signals essential for accurate space navigation
• Proven reliability in Low-Earth Orbit and harsh environments
• Design can be tailored to specific application requirements
• Fits within the constraints of CubeSat configurations
• Equipped with a supercapacitor module to ensure uninterrupted operation