Site 515 : THE X-BAND ARRAY A space platform for academic research FBOA

Current trends in space platform technology Satellites  Smaller size  Lower power  Higher data transmission  Cluster formations  Greater operating distances Ground Stations  Higher bandwidth  Higher frequency  Multi-sat tracking  Greater sensitivity

BandwidthLowHighHigh FrequencyLowHighHigh SensitivityLowHighVery High Cluster TrackingNoNoYes RangeLEO LEO/GTO/GEOLunar/Deep Space miles22,000 miles250,000 miles + Existing antenna (Roof of Durand) Single 60 ft Antenna All Five 60 ft Antennas

Why 515? For tracking and communicating, high frequency parabolic dishes with large diameters are needed “Big Dish” is unusable at higher frequencies due to the design of its mesh reflector The 60 foot diameter dish antennas at Site 515 are ideal for high bandwidth communication

Stanford’s programs: SSDL CubeSats  The latest generation  A standardized form factor  Measure 10cm x 10cm x 10cm in size

Stanford’s programs: STAR Lab

Current condition of the array: Diamond in the rough  Electronics and surfaces are intact, cleaning needed Upgrades:  The satellite tracking control system  Drive speed modifications  Feed and telecommunication upgrades  Site fencing  Preliminary design work has been completed

STAR Lab proposes to subcontract the Friends of the Bracewell Observatory Association (FBOA) FBOA is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that includes the crew that built/operated the site before FBOA will provide the labor, materials, and operating funds necessary to:  Restore, upgrade, and maintain the antennas and facilities  Maintain the grounds  Maintain liability insurance ($4 million per occurrence policy) Site 515 Proposal Expert Inspections of Site 515 Antennas and Facilities by FBOA

Budget and Timeline Restoration and Upgrade:  Cost: $530,000 for first 3 years Gifts  Costs matched with 20% contingency reserve Timeline  1st Dish up and running before Q3 ‘06  2nd Dish by Q3 ‘07

Site 515 Budget: