Next generation low cost SAR payloads: Novasar-S and beyond

NovaSAR-S delivers a significant breakthrough in lowering the cost of spaceborne SAR. GaN amplifier technology is exploited in a novel `low phase centre count' architecture with a different programmatic approach, resulting in a SAR payload compatible with a satellite cost, including launch, of £50M. In addition, the latest generation of Gallium Nitride high power amplifiers has come on-line, with up to 250W now available at X-Band. This paper describes the architecture of the NovaSAR-S payload and the next generation X-Band GaN based SAR products, highlights use of key technologies, and outlines the aspects of the technical and programmatic approach that have enabled such low cost to be achieved. The payload performance will also be presented, along with the current status of the programmes.