TWT´s in space - present status and future applications

This paper presents space applications of the TWT from the point of view of the German Space Agency. Technical aspects like high reliability, high efficiency, low mass and long lifetime play an important role as well as space typical factors like small number of pieces qualified designs and short delivery. Typical applications of the different Satellite Services (BSS, FSS, MSS, Data Relay and Navigation) will be discussed as well as the corresponding frequency ranges and power demands. The paper shows the DLR programmatic strategy and will overview the funding and supporting activities of the TWT research and development in the satellite communication department of the German space agency. Most of these new technologies will be qualified in space on the German Heinrich Hertz Satellite Mission as technology verification platform.