SpaceComb
An all-in-one, space-qualified frequency comb for ultrastable frequency transfer, optical clocks, and precision metrology in orbit.
Space-Qualified Frequency Comb
ESA Class 3 qualified with 100 krad radiation tolerance.
Ultrastable Optical-to-RF Conversion
Delivers ADEV down to < 5 × 10−15 at 10,000 s at 10 MHz.
Autonomous 24/7 Operation
Designed for continuous operation with redundant communication interfaces.
Compact, Low-Power Platform
Measures 190 × 220 × 190 mm at 7.7 kg and 38–43 W power consumption.
Exceptional Frequency Stability
Achieves phase noise down to −145 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz offset.
Specifications
SpaceComb | |
Quality Level | ESA Class 3 |
Radiation Tolerance | 100 kRad |
Operations | autonomous system operation, continuous 24/7 operation |
Communication Protocol | ECSS-E-ST-70-41C compliant PUS-C (Packet Utilization Standard) |
Communication Interface | RS422 & TCP/UDP over ethernet (hot redundant) |
Qualification Operating Temperature | + 5 °C to + 35 °C |
Qualification Non-Op Temperature | − 25 °C to + 70 °C |
Operating Voltage | 24 – 36 VDC, via SubD 15 connector |
Power Consumption | 38 – 43 W (depending on temperature at interface) |
Dimensions | 190 × 220 × 190 mm (W × D × H), including mounting feet |
Weight | 7.7 kg |
RF Clock Input | 10 MHz |
Optical Clock Output | 10 MHz (other frequencies on request) |
CW Laser Input | 1550, 1064, 780, 689 nm, other wavelengths on request |
Comb Light Output (Optional) | > 35 nm BW at 1560 nm, 10 mW |
Performance
Integration Time (τ) | ADEV @ 10 MHz | ADEV @ CW Input (1064 nm) |
1 s | < 5 × 10−13 | < 5 × 10−16 |
10 s | < 1.6 × 10−13 | < 1.6 × 10−16 |
100 s | < 5 × 10−14 | < 5 × 10−17 |
1000 s | < 1.6 × 10−14 | < 1.6 × 10−17 |
10 000 s | < 5 × 10−15 | < 5 × 10−18 |
- Stability of the 10 MHz clock output and CW input of the optically referenced SpaceComb compared to a reference comb.
Frequency combs are key enabling technologies for optical clocks, quantum sensors, and precision laser systems, providing highly accurate frequency referencing and transfer between the optical and RF domains with stability beyond 10−16. The SpaceComb brings this performance into orbit with an architecture designed for reliable operation under vacuum and microgravity conditions. Its optical, electronic, and electromechanical components are selected and qualified for the demanding radiation and environmental conditions of space missions, while flight systems are validated against shock, vibration, thermal cycling, thermal vacuum, and EMC requirements. This makes the SpaceComb a robust platform for precision timing, frequency transfer, spectroscopy, and space-based fundamental physics.
Options
Provides a stable RF reference signal for precision timing and synchronization.
Enables phase-locked stabilization of an external CW laser to the frequency comb.
Adds mission-specific functionality through configurable application modules.
Our Expert
Ordering Information
Product Code:
SpaceComb LEO
