Frequency-Selective Protection against Electromagnetic Interference on Satellites: First Lab and Space-based Results
Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/Report › Conference contribution › Contributed
Contributors
Abstract
The paper gives an overview of the preliminary laboratory and space-based findings of research into frequency-selective protection against electromagnetic interference on satellites. The authors investigating various approaches for retrofittable shielding strategies. The potential use of low-cost, mass-produced electronic components in satellites and the growth of wireless communications in space systems are leading to an increase in sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and components potentially susceptible to interference. Conventional metallic shielding concepts provide broadband attenuation but are limited by their mass, lack of frequency selectivity, and integration constraints. In response, two complementary nanomaterial-based strategies have been developed. The first employs laser-structured carbon nanotube (CNT) buckypapers (NanoComb-EMI/ESD) that yield flexible thin films with shielding effectiveness of 30-60 dB while maintaining defined transmission windows for communication bands. The second approach utilizes ultra-lightweight three-dimensional aerostructures (AeroMule caps) fabricated via sacrificial ZnO templates coated with graphene or MXenes, enabling RF-tight encapsulation of individual components at densities below 10 mg/cm3. In addition, the MAKISA concept integrates frequency-selective shielding layers with multifunctional antenna foils. Performance was assessed through chamber- and waveguide-based vector network analysis, as well as through material exposure in the CiREX experiment on the SOMP2b nanosatellite. The findings underline the feasibility of retrofittable, nanocarbon-enabled EMI protection with high attenuation-to-weight efficiency. Current work addresses scalability, mechanical robustness, and environmental stability toward future system integration and space qualification.
Details
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) |
| Place of Publication | Sydney |
| Pages | 194-202 |
| Number of pages | 9 |
| ISBN (electronic) | 9798331329396 |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
| Peer-reviewed | No |
Conference
| Title | 76th International Astronautical Congress |
|---|---|
| Subtitle | Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth |
| Abbreviated title | IAC 2025 |
| Conference number | 76 |
| Duration | 29 September - 3 October 2025 |
| Website | |
| Location | International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) |
| City | Sydney |
| Country | Australia |
External IDs
| ORCID | /0000-0002-7406-7588/work/201623537 |
|---|---|
| ORCID | /0009-0009-9925-7888/work/201624427 |
| Scopus | 105036106277 |
Keywords
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Keywords
- Electromagnetic Compatibility, Electromagnetic Insulation, Electromagnetic Interference, EMC, EMI, Mobile Communication, Nanocarbon Materials, Satellites, Space