Submicron-AlGaN/GaN MMICs for space applications

This paper reports on two AlGaN/GaN MMIC technologies, performances of MMICs and modules, and reliability for space applications at X-band to W-band frequencies. Quarter-micron gate length HEMTs deliver 5 W/mm output power density at 30 V drain bias with >58% PAE at 10 GHz operating frequency. Dual-stage 8 W output power MMICs for telemetry applications in space have a PAE of more than 50% at 8.5 GHz with a lifetime of 10⁶ h at a channel temperature of 200°C. Space evaluation tests indicate a stability of this technology suitable for space. For scientific missions a high-gain high power amplifier MMIC and module have been developed for 90 GHz operation with up to 16 dB of linear gain and 400 mW of output power.