Qualification of GaN microwave transistors for the European Space Agency Biomass mission

This paper describes the methodology and results obtained from performing a rigorous space qualification of European microwave GaN technology for the European Space Agency (ESA) Biomass mission. This is the first time European GaN technology has been qualified for an ESA mission and represents a major breakthrough in the maturity and application readiness of this technology. The work has involved developing hermetic packaging solutions and performing extensive mechanical, assembly, endurance and space operating environmental tests to ensure the components are capable of satisfying the Biomass mission requirements.