Space Cables for SpaceWire Applications

Data transmission is essential to the success of every space mission. If data can’t be transmitted, the spacecraft could lose communication with mission control, leading to inefficiencies or even a failed mission.

GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications ensure excellent, constant data transmission aboard various types of spacecrafts. Our cables provide bidirectional, high-speed data transmission up to 400 Mbit/s with minimal crosstalk, signal attenuation and low skew. Additionally, the cables meet the stringent electrical and mechanical requirements of ESCC 3902/003.

Using a serial, point-to-point dataline with Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS), our space cables for SpaceWire applications reduce costs because they can be integrated into many different satellite programs without the need for custom designs. Among the cables’ applications are high-resolution cameras and radar sensor equipment, and they are used aboard the James Webb Space Telescope and the Sun Dynamics Observatory.

Cables are available in either bulk or custom-assembled forms, terminated on micro-miniature D-type connectors.

The key to the performance of GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications is the proprietary material used in the cable insulation, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Using ePTFE, we support LVDS, which allows data to pass through the cable without significant signal loss. By combining this LVDS technology with standard hardware protocols, the cables provide a simple alternative to the need for customized program designs.

GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications ensure excellent signal integrity in a variety of applications. The cables are typically used for:

• high-resolution cameras
• radar sensor equipment
• sensor, mass-memory unit and telemetry subsystem interconnections

A number of critical space missions currently use our space cables for SpaceWire applications. They include:

• Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV)
• James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)
• KAI
• Sun Dynamics Observatory (SDO)

For more than 25 years, we’ve provided highly reliable cable solutions for the space industry. The 100% success rate of our cables demonstrates our commitment to collaborating with customers when developing reliable and durable cables for these demanding applications.

GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications provide bidirectional, high-speed data transmission up to 400 Mbit/s. Other features of the cables include:

• design specific for use in space and ground applications
• outstanding mechanical performance in extreme conditions
• 100 Ω impedance shielded signal pairs — individually or overall shielded
• very low skew, signal attenuation and crosstalk
• good EMC performance

As a result, our datalines offer many benefits, including:

• easier installation and reduced costs from common compatibility based on ESCC standard
• better signal transmission, impedance, skew, attenuation, crosstalk and EMC performance
• improved reliability from rugged materials used in construction
• valued reliability delivered from an ESA-qualified and a DIN EN ISO 9001:2000-certified manufacturing facility

Additionally, our customers receive sales and technical support from our worldwide engineering team. If you have any questions as you consider GORE Space Cables for your SpaceWire application, please contact us.

All GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications meet these technical specifications.

GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications are available in two variants: 01 and 02. When ordering, please specify ESCC3902003XXB with the ‘XX’ being the appropriate variant number. For more information, please contact us.

Find more information about GORE Space Cables for SpaceWire applications in the product data sheet and a white paper discussing the properties of cables that ensure peak electrical performance.