MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS TO DATE TOWARD THE USE OF RF MEMS INTO SPACE SATELLITE PAYLOADS

MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) technology plays a key role in the on-going miniaturization of electronic modules for automotive and consumer electronic products. In the microwave field, RF MEMS switches exhibit excellent RF properties as low power consumption, high linearity, low loss and high isolation compared to solid state electronic solutions. Based on these performances, we will present a status of the potentialities of RF-MEMS devices for application to future generation of space satellite payloads through some selected demonstrations achieved within Alcatel Space.