Interconnect pioneers unveil MWX3 series for sub-orbital communication satellites and thermal vacuum chamber testing applications

September 24th, 2024: Interconnect pioneers Junkosha have chosen European Microwave Week to showcase its MWX3 series of mmWave cabling solutions, designed for measurements within a thermal vacuum chamber (TVAC). Thanks to its precision engineered expanded-PTFE tape wrapping technology, this interconnect features characteristics including excellent phase stability in response to temperature variations (-65˚C to 125˚C) and minimal outgassing in thermal vacuum test environments, preventing environmental contamination. This means it has highly desirable properties for those looking for precise measurements within a thermal vacuum chamber and utilization in the outer atmosphere and space environment.

“Thermal vacuum chamber testing is an essential yet highly complex process in the space industry. It simulates the extreme conditions of space, including vast temperature ranges and near-zero atmospheric pressure, to ensure spacecraft components can endure the harsh environment,” explains Tomohiro Ogawa, Product Manager for Junkosha. “However, the challenges involved—such as maintaining thermal uniformity, achieving high vacuum integrity, and managing the thermal stress on materials—make it one of the most demanding phases in communication satellite development. Our expert technology has helped to advance aerospace equipment and support crucial space operations deployed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in their asteroid exploring missions - “Hayabusa” and “Hayabusa2”.

The Junkosha TVAC cable offers two specialized approaches to meet the demands of space environments. The first approach features a vent hole design, available in MWX322 SMA and 3.5mm connectors, which prevents discharge inside the connector. The second approach utilizes FEP heat shrink tubing (HST) to reduce outgassing, increasing the compatibility across a wider range of Junkosha’s MWX3 series of non-armored cable assemblies. To add to its ease of connection, the connector cable junction has been reinforced to enhance durability, making it significantly more robust than standard microwave cables for wiring between devices. All of these are now familiar requirements for today’s communication technologies to ensure reliable performance in challenging thermal vacuum conditions.

“At Junkosha, we are constantly innovating new precision engineered cabling solutions not only for this new 6G enabled world, but also for the highly specialized aerospace industries,” explains Ogawa. “Outgassing is a critical concern in space applications, as it can significantly affect the accuracy of test data and the quality of images captured by optical equipment like telescopes or lenses. Additionally, outgassing can interfere with temperature control systems and degrade the performance of solar cells, potentially compromising the overall mission. Ensuring our components minimize outgassing is essential to maintaining the integrity and reliability of space operations."

Junkosha will be exhibiting the TVAC-Compatible cable assemblies alongside its comprehensive portfolio of cable solutions at European Microwave Week (EuMW 2024) in Paris at Booth 118F from the 24th to 26th September. Now in its 27th year, the annual European Microwave Exhibition, which is by far the largest RF and microwave trade show in Europe, is held in conjunction with a wide range of relevant conferences. The exhibition also includes a series of technical seminars and exhibitor workshops describing commercial products and processes. More information on Junkosha’s precision engineered Microwave/mmWave cabling range can be found on the product page .