RF MEMS for space applications

The mass, volume and dc power consumption of payload electronic equipment is a significant contributor to the overall cost of space systems. The radiofrequency (RF) microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology offers the potential of large reduction in mass and volume of electronic equipment, by replacing the waveguide and coaxial switch matrices with their MEMS counterparts. Mass reductions can be also exploited to increase the satellite system capacity (by adding payload electronics) or to extend operational life (by increasing station keeping fuel). As a result, market factors have constantly been pushing hardware suppliers to reduce mass and size of their space-based products.