The world of antennas can be split in two main area's:

• astronomy telescopes: large reflector-type telescopes that are used to explore the universe
• satcom reflectors, used for data communication with satellites

We manufacture composite components for these systems such as reflectors, back-up structures and truss structures. These structures need to very precise and stable, and that is why composites are used. By carefully designing the material, we can reach a very coefficient of thermal expansion, which avoids the deformations due to temperature changes. The high stiffness and low weight ensure that the deformations due to gravity are minimised.

Projects for astronomy telescopes can be exist of only one telescope, but can also entail an array of telescopes that work together. In the ALMA project we manufacture 25 telescopes, in the SKA project many thousands of telescopes are envisaged. An efficient production stream is then essential, and that is what we call 'industrialisation': to produce in an industrial way so that quality is constant and cost is minimised. One wouldn't expect that to be neceassary for science instruments, but for array telescopes it is the key factor to be able to provide optimal performance for the available budget.

Satcom reflectors work at different wave-lengths, here weight is the critical factor. Weight should be kept minimal for applications such as in military vehicles, ships, aircraft or UAV's. For commercial use, weight is critical for professional users that use mobile foldable systems that need to be carried.

In this market we focus on ground-based systems, but we can also supply space reflectors through our Line of Business space.

This market is covered by our Line of Business Antennas, managed by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .