Programme
Millimetre-Wave Technology
The Millimetre Wave Technology (MMT) programme develops and delivers millimetre‑wave and terahertz technologies (GHz to THz) for Earth observation, atmospheric science, satellite communications and radio astronomy. By delivering critical receiver technology to industry and mission partners, the programme helps de‑risk space missions and supports better atmospheric measurements for weather prediction and climate research.
Programme Aims
The programme aims to design, develop and deliver millimetre‑wave and terahertz technologies that enable new and improved measurements of the Earth’s atmosphere and the wider universe. This includes supporting the international space sector through receiver delivery for Earth observation, advancing remote‑sensing instruments for atmospheric science and radio astronomy, and developing hardware for millimetre‑wave communications to and between satellites.
Key areas of focus include:
- Delivery of flight-ready receiver systems to support operational missions
- In‑house research and development in device and component technologies, including GaAs/InGaAs, Schottky diodes, direct detectors, p‑i‑n switches, noise sources and photodiode‑based millimetre‑wave sources.
- Support for collaborators and university partners through expertise, services and facilities
Our work in action
Through academic and agency collaborations and in-house research and innovation, we develop and delivery technology and hardware to support operational and future space missions.
Enabling technologies
Conducting R&D activity to develop the technologies, components and devices that underpin mission success. This includes developing emerging technologies such as transistor amplifiers, p‑i‑n switches for calibration, and active noise sources.
Instrument development
Progressing innovative ideas into realised instruments, we support the design and development of instrument concepts, developing prototypes and testing them from airborne platforms to build a science and benefit case for operational missions.
Flight hardware delivery
Completing the design, production, test and delivery of receivers, calibration targets and thermometry - the programme supports UK capability in commercial weather forecasting and enabling high vertical resolution atmospheric data.
Mission concept studies
Contributing to early mission concept studies exploring measurement approaches and instrument option, including work such as Keystone Earth Explorer 12 terahertz upper‑atmosphere study, assessing radiometer options to measure OH and atomic oxygen at high altitudes.
HyMS technology in the lab at RAL Space. Credit: STFC RAL Space
Case Study Highlight
HyMS: Transforming Weather Forecasting from Orbit
RAL Space and Spire Global developed and commercialised HyMS, a compact hyperspectral microwave sounder enabling more frequent, cost-effective atmospheric observations from orbit. By improving temperature and humidity profiling, the technology enhances weather forecasting accuracy, particularly for fast-moving events and data-sparse regions, supporting global decision-making and resilience to extreme weather impacts.
