Engineering Model Optical Frequency Comb for Space Applications

DLR’s Galileo Competence Center (GK) works on the development and analysis of navigation systems, i.e. of Galileo. The activities range from technology demonstrations to operational applications. The aim is to influence and configure future generations of Galileo and to concentrate knowledge and technological advancements in all Galileo related fields in one institution. The subject of this tender is an engineering model (EM), which is designed to be the basis for a subsequent development of an engineering qualification model (EQM) as well as a flight model (FM) of an optical frequency comb for space applications in medium or low earth orbit (MEO or LEO). The here used EM definition is based on the typical space and systems engineering model philosophy and is described as follows: ‘The EM is used to qualify the functions, to verify the fail-safe system operations, and for testing important parameters. It represents the electrical and optical functions by using commercial components and is built in a flight-typical configuration. It represents the flight design without redundancy and high reliability parts. It is used at any system level. This model should be the same in form, fit, and functionally as the final flight model. The model may already use a mixture of flight-grade components (usually spare or out-of-life in stores) and commercial components.’