A K/Ka Band 5G Satellite Payload for LIDE Mission

In the context of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks, the European Space Agency (ESA) funded project Direct Access Live Demonstration (LIDE) aims to demonstrate direct 5G access via a Low Hearth Orbit (LEO) satellite. In this paper, the telecommunication payload design and key performance are presented, while the satellite platform and the ground segment are not part of the presented work. The mission features a 12U satellite that acts as a transparent data relay between 5G User Equipment (UE) and a 5G Node B (gNB), allowing access to the core network. The satellite operates in the Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) K/Ka band for uplink and downlink. The payload comprises two transponders and four antennas designed for K and Ka band operation, utilizing Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components. Key parameters of the antennas and transponders are evaluated in the context of a qualification campaign. A dedicated testbed, including channel emulators that introduce satellite link impairments, also demonstrates that the transponders can handle a 5G communication in line with the LIDE scenario.