Made-to-measure antenna reflectors

SPRINT – flexible and innovative

To offer an innovative and competitive solution for the changing telecommunications satellite market, the new generation of SPRINT satellite antenna reflectors from ArianeGroup combines light weight with robustness, stability and modularity.

With a diameter range of 1.5–3 metres, the SPRINT reflectors can be fitted to telecommunications satellite platforms of from two to six tons in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO). These extremely versatile reflectors are compatible with C to Q/V band missions and their shape can be tailored to the needs of the customers.

The SPRINT antenna reflectors will be the first to be installed on Airbus’ new OneSat line of flexible satellites.

Optimised manufacturing process

The ultra-light structure of the SPRINT reflectors is made from high-performance composite materials, combined with standardised components.

They consist of two honeycomb sandwich and carbon fibre reinforced composite structures: a thin shell with a shape tailored to the needs of the satellite’s missions and a rigid rear structure interfacing with the platform. These two structures are assembled by means of patented ArianeGroup systems which adapt easily to the needs of the customer, while halving assembly times.

The ArianeGroup teams draw on several decades of experience with more than 150 antenna reflectors installed on a number of satellite platforms for operators around the world. 

Responding to market requirements, ArianeGroup developed the SPRINT product in just two years, with the support of the French Space Agency (CNES) and the European Space Agency (ESA). 

Making full use of this experience, the SPRINT new-generation reflectors combine the best in terms of performance and competitiveness, to meet the needs of satellite manufacturers and operators.

Key features