Connecting to beyond — mapping the origins of the universe with SKAO

Ruggedised radio frequency components deliver high performance in challenging conditions for landmark space observatory.

Powering scientific innovation

The Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) is an intergovernmental organisation created to explore deep space from here on Earth. Its pioneering mission is to study how the earliest galaxies were formed by charting the births and deaths of stars over the first billion years. HUBER+SUHNER is supplying vital electronic components for SKAO’s low-frequency radio telescope in Western Australia through a multi-year contract with antenna manufacturer Sirio Antenne. These components will link together more than 78,000 antennas and connect the telescope to onsite server stations and post-processing data stations at other locations, enabling the constant collection and analysis of signals from space.

Technology that performs in the harshest environments

HUBER+SUHNER’s decades of experience with radio frequency connectors and cables helped secure this contract. We will supply over 170,000 assemblies to Sirio Antenne that include our globally recognised SPUMA 195 cables and XQMA connectors alongside specially designed SMB connectors. Resolution, sensitivity and speed are all crucial elements for radio telescopes. By delivering precise signal transmissions through a complex stream of processing, these components will help reveal the faintest details millions of miles away. Durability is equally important due to the challenging conditions of the antenna farm’s location in the Australian outback, an arid region of extreme temperatures. Backed by deep expertise in satellite and space component manufacturing and engineering, this technology has been ruggedised to perform in the most demanding environments.

“We value HUBER+SUHNER’s high quality standards, which ensure we receive products crafted with precision and manufactured through tightly controlled processes. Their on-time delivery helps us keep to our schedule with the project.”

Antonio Sganzerla, Project Manager, Sirio Antenne

Benefits beyond borders

SKAO aspires to provide science capabilities to the international astronomical community for decades to come. Long-term partnerships will help it achieve this goal. Sirio Antenne can count on HUBER+SUHNER to keep delivering the next-generation technology, supporting an endeavour which promises to have a major impact on science, society and beyond. And as well as expanding our understanding of the Earth’s place in the universe, SKAO is helping to forge closer connections between nations too, through international collaboration on its design, development and future.

“At HUBER+SUHNER, we have decades of expertise in designing and manufacturing microwave, photonic and antenna technologies, and we enable outstanding data transmission for the global space industry. We’re incredibly proud to be involved in this project, that has the potential of unlocking frontiers in science and deepening our understanding of the universe.”

Axel Vega, Senior Vice President of Strategy & Business Development, Aerospace & Defense, HUBER+SUHNER