A Systems Engineering approach for specifying a combined Compact Antenna Test Range and Near-Field Scanner facility

摘要

This paper describes a Systems Engineering (SE) approach established at the Systems Engineering Office (LSIS) to produce a system-level specification for a combined Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) and Near-Field Scanner (NFS) facility. The Integration and Test Laboratory (LIT) of the Brazilian National Institute for Space Research (INPE) is currently expanding its facilities due to the evolution of Brazilian space programs, which include larger, complex, and heavier satellites, such as telecommunication satellites. One of the new test facilities that will be part of LIT is an integrated CATR and NFS facility for antennas and satellite payloads testing. An SE approach based on ISO/IEC/IEEE standards has been chosen to produce the required system-level specification. This tailored approach and the specific activities and results within this project are described. Additionally, this paper presents a review of several existing compact test range facilities. The LSIS systems engineering approach that was used enabled the definition of a balanced solution for the combined CATR and NFS facility that aligns with Brazilian space program projections. This new testing facility will allow INPE remaining up-to-date in the satellite testing industry while entering the large satellite industry.